Pregnant women are now a key focus of influenza vaccination efforts, with over a quarter vaccinated in 2025, as health authorities aim to protect both mother and child from serious risks.
Pregnant women targeted for flu vaccine
The ongoing seasonal influenza vaccination campaign includes pregnant women as a key group, in addition to individuals aged 65 and older. In 2025, about one-quarter of pregnant women received the influenza vaccine, according to recent data.Vaccine timing differs for pregnant women
The influenza vaccine is available to pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy, unlike vaccines for pertussis and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which are recommended during specific weeks of pregnancy. These differences highlight the unique considerations for each vaccine.Risks of flu during pregnancy
Influenza during pregnancy can lead to serious health risks for both the mother and the fetus. These include a higher risk of miscarriage, increased hospitalization, and a greater chance of preterm birth, often linked to complications like fever-induced contractions.Maternal vaccination protects the infant
When a mother is vaccinated during pregnancy, her body produces antibodies that cross the placenta and protect the child during the first six months of life. This is crucial because infants under six months cannot receive the influenza vaccine and are at high risk of severe illness or death from the flu.Vaccine safety and hesitancy
The recommended vaccines for pregnant women—Flucelvax, Influvac, and Vaxigrip—are considered safe for both the mother and the child. However, vaccine hesitancy remains an issue, with 31% of unvaccinated pregnant women in the previous campaign expressing general distrust in vaccines. To address this, the Health Insurance Fund provides healthcare professionals with a frequently asked questions section.Billing and coverage details
The influenza vaccine is fully covered by the Health Insurance Fund using the CIP code with the EXO 7 prevention. A blank coverage form is available on the amelipro platform, and specific details must be completed for billing. The vaccine is billed at 7.50 € with the act code VGP, covered at 70% by the fund, with full coverage from the 7th month of pregnancy under maternity insurance.Vaccine coverage limitations
The Health Insurance Fund does not cover the vaccine if it is prescribed and administered at a pharmacy. In such cases, no reimbursement is possible, highlighting the importance of proper prescription channels for coverage.
