Clinical Guidance for Influenza Vaccination

Information for the 2023-24 Influenza Season

Talking About Influenza Vaccine Recommendation

As a health care professional, your strong recommendation is a critical factor in whether your patients get an influenza vaccine. Most adults believe vaccines are important, but they need a reminder from you to get vaccinated. After making your recommendation, follow up with each patient during subsequent appointments to ensure they received an influenza vaccine. If a patient still is unvaccinated, repeat the recommendation and try to identify and address any questions or concerns.

Safety Considerations for People Who Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding

Influenza is more likely to cause illness that results in hospitalization in pregnant people than in people of reproductive age who are not pregnant. Influenza also may be harmful for the developing baby. A common influenza sign can be fever, which has been associated in some studies with neural tube defects and other adverse outcomes for a developing baby. Getting vaccinated while pregnant also can help protect a baby from influenza after birth (because antibodies are passed from the pregnant parent to the developing baby during pregnancy). People who get the influenza vaccine while pregnant or breastfeeding also develop antibodies against influenza that they can share with their infants through their breast milk.

Clinical Guidance for Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Safety

CDC and FDA monitor the safety of all vaccines licensed in the United States, including seasonal influenza vaccines. Studies support the safety of annual influenza vaccination in children and adults.