Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is recommended for pregnant women during the winter months to prevent influenza?

1. Increased intake of Vitamin C and folate

2. Vaccination against the influenza virus

3. Increased caloric intake of fruits and vegetables

4. Heavier winter clothes to avoid chilling the fetus

The correct answer is: Vaccination against the influenza virus

Vaccination against the influenza virus is highly recommended for pregnant women during the winter months to provide essential protection against influenza and its potential complications. The immune system of pregnant women can be compromised, making them more susceptible to severe illness if they contract the flu, which can also pose risks to the developing fetus, such as preterm labor and low birth weight. The influenza vaccine is specifically formulated to protect both the mother and her unborn child. Pregnant women can safely receive the inactivated flu vaccine, which not only helps in reducing the risk of maternal illness but also allows the mother to pass antibodies to her baby, providing early protection after birth. While increased intake of Vitamin C and folate, a focus on consuming more fruits and vegetables, and wearing heavier clothing during winter have their general health benefits, these strategies do not specifically address influenza prevention. Vaccination remains the most effective method for reducing the incidence and severity of the flu during the winter months for pregnant women, ensuring better health outcomes for both mother and child.