Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Infections Reported in Pregnant Women

Pregnancy raises risk for complications related to seasonal as well as pandemic influenza infections such as those caused by the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. The CDC has recently summarized information about novel H1N1 infection during pregnancy and has issued preliminary treatment recommendations.

Twenty cases of novel H1N1 (15 confirmed and 5 probable) in pregnant women have been reported in the U.S. as of May 10, 2009. Three women were hospitalized, and one of them died. Based on available data, the CDC recommends that pregnant women with confirmed, probable, or suspected novel H1N1 infection receive antiviral therapy with oseltamivir (Tamiflu; preferred for its systemic absorption) for 5 days. Therapy should be initiated as soon as po…