Family Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

Administration of the influenza vaccine is a common and recommended method of preventing influenza in pregnant women. The vaccine is formulated to protect against the influenza virus, which can pose serious health risks to both the mother and the fetus. Pregnant women experience changes in their immune systems, making them more susceptible to severe illness from influenza. Vaccination not only helps to protect the mother but also provides passive immunity to the baby, which can last for several months after birth.

The influenza vaccine has a strong safety profile for pregnant women and is recommended by health authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Receiving the vaccine during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications associated with the flu.

In contrast, the administration of the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is not relevant to influenza prevention and is typically not given during pregnancy unless there is a specific indication. The use of antiviral drugs can be a treatment option for those who do contract influenza but is not a preventative measure. Excluding pregnant women from public places could reduce exposure to influenza viruses but is impractical and not a recommended strategy for prevention. Therefore, vaccination remains the primary and effective