What does ACOG recommend for all women who are pregnant or postpartum during the influenza season?

The recommendation from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for pregnant or postpartum women during the influenza season emphasizes the importance of vaccination. When a vaccine becomes available, it is strongly advised that these women receive it promptly. Pregnant and postpartum individuals are at a higher risk for severe complications from influenza, making vaccination crucial for their safety and the health of their newborns.

Vaccination during pregnancy not only helps protect the mother from influenza but also provides passive immunity to the newborn, as antibodies can be transferred across the placenta. This approach is vital since infants cannot receive the influenza vaccine themselves until they reach a certain age.

Delaying vaccination until a month after delivery or opting for a lower-dose vaccine is not recommended because it misses the opportunity to provide early protection during the influenza season. Furthermore, not receiving the vaccine at all leaves both the mother and baby vulnerable to potential severe illness caused by influenza. The evidence supporting vaccination during pregnancy is well established, reinforcing the idea that timely vaccination is the best practice during influenza season for these populations.