Flu Vaccine Uptake Higher During Pregnancy

Pregnant patients have more than twice the odds of receiving a flu shot compared to non-pregnant adults.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Pregnancy

Flu Vaccine Uptake Higher During Pregnancy

Live Poll

Do you prioritize recommended vaccinations during and after pregnancy to protect your long-term health?

Data from the 2017-2022 respiratory seasons reveal that pregnant patients are more than twice as likely to receive an influenza vaccine as non-pregnant patients. Vaccination uptake notably declines once patients enter the postnatal period.

Why it matters

Frequent prenatal appointments and prioritized clinical recommendations during pregnancy likely drive higher vaccination compliance. Understanding these patterns helps researchers identify gaps in care for individuals after they give birth, when access to preventative health services often shifts.

This retrospective study analyzed Optum health claims records from the 2017-18 through the 2021-22 seasons. It found that pregnant patients had more than twice the odds of receiving the flu vaccine compared to non-pregnant patients, with a dip in rates observed across both groups during the 2020-21 season.

The players

University of Southern California

A public research institution where the lead study author is affiliated.

The details

Clinicians actively recommend flu shots during prenatal visits because influenza can cause more severe complications during pregnancy. Additionally, vaccination during this period helps transfer maternal antibodies to the newborn, providing early protection. The study utilized health claims data to track these trends and identified that rates often drop after pregnancy as the frequency of routine medical contact decreases.

The analysis covered the 2017-18 through 2021-22 respiratory virus seasons.
Vaccination rates for pregnant and postnatal patients dropped during the 2020-21 season.
The findings were published in the American Journal of Public Health in October 2026.

Health Landscape

This study aligns with established public health goals to maximize maternal vaccination for neonatal benefit. It highlights the importance of sustained preventative care through the transition from pregnancy to the postnatal period.

If you are pregnant or recently gave birth, speak with your obstetrician about keeping your flu vaccinations up to date. Since protection is prioritized during pregnancy, discuss how to maintain your preventative health schedule during your postnatal checkups.

The takeaway

Vaccination during pregnancy is a standard protective measure that offers benefits to both the mother and the newborn. Continue to discuss your immunization status with your physician during every postpartum visit to ensure your preventative care remains consistent after delivery.