What type of seasonal flu vaccine should pregnant women receive?

There are two types of influenza vaccines.  One is the inactivated influenza vaccine (“flu-shot”) that is given with a needle, usually in the arm.  This is the type of vaccine that Advisory Committee Immunization Practices (ACIP). recommends pregnant women should receive.

The other type of influenza vaccine, “nasal - spray” influenza vaccine (sometimes called LAIV for “live attenuated influenza vaccine”) is made with live weakened influenza virus.  The live attenuated (weakened) influenza vaccine is not recommended by the ACIP for use in pregnancy.

Last Updated: 10/27/2009

• Can family members of a pregnant woman receive the nasal spray vaccine?

• Seasonal Flu
• Special Patients
  • Pregnant Women