H1N1 Swine Flu risks... discussion

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   I pulled this information from the UK NHS regarding the swine flu whic h is upgrading to pandemic.. Currently NZ is ranked 30th for confirmed cases. Australia is ranked 5th. I wanted to know if the risks (being pregnant myself) were greater, and from what I gathered, even though there are reasonably low cases of pregnant women with H1N1,  our bodies are more susceptible to respiratory issues related to the flu in general. Heres the Q&A I found:-

Does swine flu pose special risks in pregnant women?

During pregnancy, you may have an increased risk of complications from any type of flu, especially in the second and third trimester.

Can I take antiviral drugs if I am pregnant?

Yes, on the advice of a doctor. The Department of Health has purchased Relenza, an inhaled antiviral drug that treats flu without reaching the developing fetus.

An expert group reviewed the risk of antiviral treatment in pregnancy, which is extremely small - much smaller than the risk posed by the symptoms of swine flu.

Will pregnant women get preference for a swine flu vaccine?

It will be months before a swine flu vaccine becomes available. When it is available, there will be guidelines on which groups of people are a greater priority for vaccination. See vaccine information above.

Should I stop breastfeeding if I need to take antiviral drugs?

Women who are breastfeeding should continue to do so while receiving antiviral treatment, as this is not contraindicated. If a mother is ill, she should continue breastfeeding and increase feeding frequency. If she becomes too ill to feed, then expressing milk may still be possible. Antiviral drugs are excreted into breast milk in very small (insignificant) amounts.

Can children take antivirals?

Yes, on the advice of a doctor. Tamiflu is safe for infants aged one and older, at a reduced dose. Relenza (an inhaler) can be used by children aged five and older under the supervision of an adult.

Can babies under the age of one take antivirals?

Tamiflu and Relenza are not licensed for use in babies under the age of one. However, Tamiflu may be used under the supervision of a doctor if your baby is ill.

Instruct parent and caretakers on how to protect their infant from the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like novel influenza A (H1N1):

*Wash adults’ and infants’ hands frequently with soap and water, especially after infants place their hands in their mouths. 

*Keep infants and mothers as close together as possible and encourage early and frequent skin-to-skin contact between mothers and their infants. 

*Limit sharing of toys and other items that have been in infants' mouths. Wash thoroughly with soap and water any items that have been in infants' mouths. 

*Keep pacifiers (including the pacifier ring/handle) and other items out of adults' or other infants' mouths prior to giving to the infant. 

*Practice cough and sneeze etiquette. 

I hope this helps ease concerns to pregnant women, and remember... always call your health practioner before presenting yourself if you think you have contracted the flu. This includes Pharmacies, your doctor and hospitals. 