18/08/2026
Pregnant During Pune’s Flu Season? Precautions Every Expecting Mother Should Take in Balewadi Pune
Pregnancy is a special time when taking care of your health becomes even more important. During flu season, expecting mothers should take extra precautions to reduce the risk of influenza and other viral infections. Changes in the immune system, heart, and lungs during pregnancy can make some respiratory infections more serious.
At Tender & Nest Women’s Clinic, Balewadi High Street, Pune, Dr. Molshri Misra, MBBS, DGO, DNB, FMAS, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, advises expecting mothers to stay informed, take sensible precautions, and seek medical advice early if flu-like symptoms develop.
Why Is Flu More Important During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy naturally causes changes in the immune system and places additional demands on the heart and lungs. As a result, pregnant women may have a higher risk of developing complications from influenza.
Flu during pregnancy may increase the risk of:
Severe influenza infection
Breathing difficulties and pneumonia
Hospitalisation
Dehydration and weakness
Pregnancy-related complications in severe cases
Preterm delivery in some circumstances
The increased risk may continue for a period after delivery, so new mothers should also remain attentive to flu-like symptoms.
What Flu Symptoms Should Pregnant Women Watch For?
Common flu symptoms can include:
Fever or chills
Dry cough or sore throat
Headache
Body aches
Unusual tiredness or weakness
Runny or blocked nose
Some people may also experience vomiting, loose motions, or other symptoms.
Important: Fever and respiratory symptoms can have several causes. Not every fever is influenza, and symptoms alone cannot reliably distinguish flu from other viral infections. If you are pregnant and develop flu-like symptoms, speak with your obstetrician or healthcare professional.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Flu During Pregnancy?
1. Discuss Flu Vaccination With Your Obstetrician
Talk to your obstetrician about influenza vaccination during pregnancy. Your doctor can advise you about the appropriate vaccine and timing based on your individual circumstances.
2. Be Careful in Crowded Indoor Places
Consider wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded or poorly ventilated places, particularly when respiratory infections are circulating. This can be especially useful in busy public transport, clinics, offices, and other crowded environments.
3. Avoid Close Contact With People Who Are Sick
If someone at home has flu-like symptoms, maintain reasonable distance where possible, improve ventilation, and encourage the unwell person to follow appropriate infection-control measures.
4. Wash Your Hands Regularly
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after returning home, using public facilities, or touching commonly used surfaces. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
5. Prioritise Rest, Fluids and Nutrition
Adequate rest, hydration, and balanced nutrition are important during pregnancy. If you develop a fever or feel unwell, drink appropriate fluids and follow your doctor's advice.
If You Develop Flu Symptoms, Don't Simply 'Wait and Watch'
Pregnant women should contact their obstetrician or physician early if they develop symptoms suggestive of influenza.
Antiviral treatment may be recommended for pregnant women with suspected or confirmed influenza, and treatment is generally more beneficial when started early. Oseltamivir is commonly recommended for influenza treatment during pregnancy when clinically indicated, but the medicine, dose, and treatment decision should always be determined by your doctor.
Do not wait for laboratory results before seeking medical advice if you are significantly unwell or your doctor suspects influenza.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Pregnancy
“It's only a viral fever. I'll wait for several days.”
Pregnancy can increase the risk of complications from influenza. Contact your healthcare professional early rather than waiting for symptoms to become severe.
Taking Antibiotics Without Medical Advice
Antibiotics do not treat influenza or other viral infections. Do not self-medicate with antibiotics unless they have been prescribed by your doctor for a bacterial infection.
Taking Cold-and-Flu Medicines Without Checking
Some over-the-counter medicines may not be appropriate during pregnancy. Always check with your obstetrician or healthcare professional before taking any medicine, including cold, cough, fever, or flu preparations.
Ignoring Warning Signs
Breathing difficulty, chest pain, persistent high fever, severe weakness, dehydration, or reduced fetal movements should not be ignored.
Seek Urgent Medical Care If You Experience:
Seek prompt medical attention if you develop:
Difficulty or shortness of breath
Persistent or high fever or chills
Chest pain or pressure
Reduced or absent baby movements
Severe weakness or dizziness
Confusion
Difficulty keeping fluids down
Signs of significant dehydration
If you notice reduced fetal movements, contact your maternity care provider promptly rather than waiting for the symptoms to resolve.
Prevention Today. Healthy Mother & Baby Tomorrow.
Flu prevention during pregnancy is about taking practical precautions, recognising symptoms early, and getting appropriate medical advice when needed. Avoid unnecessary self-medication and maintain regular antenatal care throughout pregnancy.
For personalised advice about flu vaccination, fever during pregnancy, respiratory infections, medicines during pregnancy, and pregnancy care, consult your obstetrician.
Tender & Nest Women's Clinic
Dr. Molshri Misra
MBBS, DGO, DNB, FMAS
Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Location: Balewadi High Street, Pune
Contact: +91 80076 66223
Tender & Nest Women's Clinic – Compassionate Care. Beautiful Beginnings.
Disclaimer: This content is for general health education and does not replace an examination or personalised medical advice. Pregnant women with flu-like symptoms should consult their obstetrician or healthcare professional. In an emergency, seek immediate medical care.. For more info visit us at https://www.drmolshrimisragynecologist.com/latest-update/pregnant-during-pune-s-flu-season-precautions-every-expecting-mother-should-take-in-balewadi-pune/56?utm_source=facebookpage
