Influenza During Pregnancy Raises Risk Of Seizures In Offspring: Study

The researchers found that there was a 9% increased risk for all types of seizures in children whose mothers had influenza during pregnancy compared to those who did not. (Credit: Image by Lookstudio on Freepik)

Here's another compelling reason to get your flu shot: new research shows that contracting influenza infection during pregnancy may increase the risk of seizures in your child.

During pregnancy, the immune system is weaker, making the mother more vulnerable to infections. These infections can pass through the placenta and harm the baby, leading to serious issues like stillbirth, birth- defects, premature birth, or health problems in the newborn, such as respiratory issues, brain damage, and poor growth.