Impact of influenza on respiratory-related hospitalizations and office visits in pregnant women: From evidence to public health practice

Influenza viruses are the most important cause of wintertime respiratory morbidity in Canada and throughout the world. In Canada, influenza vaccination is recommended for pregnant women only if they have medical conditions that place them at high risk, whereas in the United States, it is recommended that all women who will be pregnant during the influenza season be vaccinated. The purpose of this study is to determine if women who were pregnant during an influenza season have higher rates of respiratory illness compared to women pregnant outside of influenza seasons. The findings of this study will provide public health officials with important information to guide them in developing policies around influenza vaccination for pregnant women.