Pregnant Patients Receive More Flu Vaccines

New study shows pregnant women are more than twice as likely to get a flu shot than their non-pregnant counterparts.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Pregnancy

Pregnant Patients Receive More Flu Vaccines

Live Poll

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

Data from the 2017-18 through 2021-22 respiratory virus seasons shows that pregnant patients are more than twice as likely to receive an influenza vaccine compared to non-pregnant patients. The findings were published in October 2026 in the American Journal of Public Health.

Why it matters

Frequent prenatal care appointments and clinician recommendations during pregnancy ensure higher vaccination uptake to protect both the mother and the newborn via maternal antibodies. However, vaccine rates for patients often decline significantly once they enter the postnatal period.

Researchers analyzing Optum health claims found pregnant patients are more than twice as likely to be vaccinated against influenza than non-pregnant patients. Vaccination uptake notably dropped for both pregnant and postnatal patients during the 2020-21 flu season.

The players

University of Southern California

This academic institution is where the lead study author of the research is affiliated.

American Journal of Public Health

This peer-reviewed publication serves as the venue for the study regarding maternal vaccination trends.

The details

Obstetricians prioritize these vaccinations because influenza infections can cause more severe complications during pregnancy. The study indicates that increased healthcare access and higher income-eligible thresholds for Medicaid during pregnancy contribute to the discrepancy in vaccination rates compared to the postnatal period.

The study analyzed records from the 2017-18 flu season through the 2021-22 season.
Vaccination rates for pregnant and postnatal patients dropped during the 2020-21 flu season.
The findings were published in the American Journal of Public Health in October 2026.

Culture Shift

This study highlights the contrast between intensive prenatal medical engagement and the historical decline in postnatal influenza vaccination rates. It underscores how societal access to consistent obstetric care drives vaccine adoption patterns that diminish after birth.

Expect clinicians to continue prioritizing flu shots during your prenatal visits to ensure you and your newborn remain protected. Patients should be aware that vaccination routines may need intentional follow-up once the postnatal period begins.

The takeaway

Maintaining consistent vaccination habits remains essential even as healthcare touchpoints change after childbirth. Discuss a long-term immunization plan with your healthcare provider to ensure ongoing protection throughout your postnatal journey.