The American Medical Association (AMA) is Encouraging Everyone Six Months and Older, Especially Pregnant Women, to be Vaccinated Against the Flu.

As flu season begins, the American Medical Association (AMA) is encouraging everyone six months and older, especially pregnant women, to be vaccinated against the flu. 

“Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself, loved ones and the public against the spread of flu. It also saves lives—especially vulnerable populations who aren’t eligible for vaccination such as babies younger than six months,” said AMA President Patrice A. Harris, M.D., M.A. “While October is the ideal time to get vaccinated against the flu, we urge every eligible American to get their flu vaccine as soon as possible because we know it’s the most effective way to protect against the flu and its potentially serious complications. The flu vaccine is particularly effective in reducing flu illness, doctor’s visits, missed work and school, and at preventing flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. It’s also a proven way to significantly reduce a child’s risk of influenza-associated death.

The AMA also urges physicians to encourage their pregnant patients to get the flu vaccine. Pregnant women can receive the flu vaccine during any trimester, but should receive the Tdap vaccine early in the third trimester, to protect them against flu and whooping cough.

“The AMA fully supports the overwhelming scientific evidence that shows vaccines are among the most effective and safest interventions to both prevent individual illness and protect the health of the public,” Dr. Harris continued. “The AMA will continue its work to promote public understanding and confidence in the use of vaccines to prevent resurgence of vaccine-preventable illnesses and deaths.”

Source: The American Medical Association