Immune Responses to the Flu Shot During Pregnancy
Immune Responses to the Flu Shot During Pregnancy
This study will examine effects of everyday life stress and obesity on immune responses to
 influenza virus vaccine (the flu shot) during pregnancy. Following vaccination, antibody
 levels against influenza (the flu) increase. Higher antibody levels indicate better immune
 protection from influenza. In addition to providing protection from the flu for yourself,
 being vaccinated during pregnancy may protect your baby from the flu during the first six
 months of life during which time infants cannot be vaccinated. Our primary goals are to
 determine whether greater life stress and obesity reduce 1) antibody responses to the flu
 shot in women and 2) antibody levels in the newborn at the time of delivery.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  less than 29 weeks pregnant

 -  ages 18-42

 -  planning to deliver at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  prior serious adverse reaction to seasonal influenza vaccine