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The impact of influenza virus infection in pregnancy

    Lucy K Somerville

    *Author for correspondence: Tel.: +612 4222 5898; Fax: +612 4222 5367;

    E-mail Address: lucykatesomerville@gmail.com

    Department of Infectious Diseases, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia

    ,
    Kerri Basile

    Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia

    ,
    Dominic E Dwyer

    Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia

    Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases & Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia

    &
    Jen Kok

    Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia

    Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases & Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia

    Published Online:https://doi.org/10.2217/fmb-2017-0096

    Data from previous seasonal epidemics and pandemics have confirmed that pregnant women are at increased risk for severe influenza virus infection. Complications including fetal loss, higher rates of hospitalization and maternal death are most notable during the late gestational period. Antiviral therapy and influenza vaccination are recommended in pregnant women as both are effective and safe. This review discusses the epidemiology, pathophysiology, treatment and prevention of influenza virus infection in pregnancy, with a focus on recent developments.

    Papers of special note have been highlighted as: • of interest; •• of considerable interest

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