Maternal vaccination for the prevention of influenza: current status and hopes for the future

• Authors: Varun Phadke, Emory University; Saad Omer, Emory University
• Journal Title: Expert Review of Vaccines
• Volume: Volume 15, Number 10
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis: STM, Behavioural Science and Public Health Titles - No Open Select | 2016-04-22, Pages 1255-1280
• Type of Work: Article | Post-print: After Peer Review
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1080/14760584.2016.1175304
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Epidemiology; Health Sciences, Public Health
• Keywords: Science & Technology; Life Sciences & Biomedicine; Immunology; Influenza; pregnancy; vaccine; seasonal; pandemic; maternal immunization; infant; stillbirth; preterm birth; RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS; GESTATIONAL-AGE BIRTH; PNEUMOCOCCAL CONJUGATE VACCINE; LABORATORY-CONFIRMED INFLUENZA; RANDOMIZED-CONTROLLED-TRIAL; SETTING-SOUTH AFRICA; PREGNANT-WOMEN; PANDEMIC INFLUENZA; SEASONAL INFLUENZA; UNITED-STATES

Abstract

Influenza is an important cause of morbidity and mortality among pregnant women and young infants, and influenza infection during pregnancy has also been associated with adverse obstetric and birth outcomes. There is substantial evidence – from randomized trials and observational studies – that maternal influenza immunization can protect pregnant women and their infants from influenza disease. In addition, there is compelling observational evidence that prevention of influenza in pregnant women can also protect against certain adverse pregnancy outcomes, including stillbirth and preterm birth. In this article we will review and evaluate the literature on both the burden of influenza disease in pregnant women and infants, as well as the multiple potential benefits of maternal influenza immunization for mother, fetus, and infant. We will also review key clinical aspects of maternal influenza immunization, as well as identify remaining knowledge gaps, and discuss avenues for future investigation.