Bengaluru: Hospitals in Bengaluru have reported a significant increase in flu cases among pregnant women over the last six weeks, with at least two expectant mothers presenting flu symptoms daily. Experts attribute this trend to a combination of immune system changes during pregnancy, seasonal factors, and increased exposure due to crowded gatherings during the holiday season.
Pregnancy-Related Risks
“Pregnant and postpartum women, especially those within two weeks after delivery, face a heightened risk of developing influenza due to the immune system’s adaptations during pregnancy,” said Dr. Priya SP Patil, consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at Altius Hospital.
Dr. Priya emphasized that the severity of symptoms tends to increase as pregnancy progresses, with women in the later stages at greater risk. Underlying conditions such as diabetes, cardiopulmonary diseases, and immunosuppressive disorders like HIV further elevate the risk of complications and hospitalizations.
Why Pregnant Women Are More Vulnerable
Dr. Usha BR, fertility consultant and robotic surgeon at Fortis Hospital, explained that the suppression of the immune system during pregnancy prevents the body from rejecting the fetus but also makes expectant mothers more prone to infections. Pregnancy hormones can also affect the respiratory system, making it harder to breathe and increasing susceptibility to severe flu symptoms.
The rise in flu cases has been notable, with numbers increasing from two cases per day to significantly more.
Seasonal and Environmental Factors
Dr. Shwetha Krishnamurthy, consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at Sparsh Hospital, linked the rise in flu cases to current seasonal conditions, stating that flu symptoms account for 30–40% of pregnant women visiting daily. “While we expect a gradual decline in cases as temperatures rise in February, the trend is likely to persist through January,” she added.
The sharp drop in night-time temperatures and low humidity has created favorable conditions for respiratory illnesses, said Dr. Sachin Kumar, senior consultant in pulmonology and critical care medicine at Sakra World Hospital. He also noted that migration, overcrowded celebrations, and post-holiday travel have fueled the spread of viruses.
Precautions and Medical Advice
Doctors advise pregnant women to adhere to strict hygiene practices to reduce their risk of contracting the flu:
- Wear masks in public or crowded places.
- Avoid crowded gatherings, especially during peak flu season.
- Stay warm to prevent respiratory distress.
Women experiencing severe symptoms, such as dehydration, high fever, or difficulty breathing, should seek immediate medical attention.
