What is the recommended treatment after exposure to influenza in pregnancy?

The recommended treatment after exposure to influenza in pregnancy is to begin oseltamivir 75 mg for 10 days. This antiviral medication is used as both treatment and prophylaxis for influenza. In pregnant patients, timely administration of oseltamivir is crucial because they are at a higher risk for severe influenza-related complications, such as pneumonia and hospitalization.

Initiating antiviral therapy promptly following exposure helps to reduce the severity of the illness and can potentially prevent the development of symptoms altogether. Oseltamivir is considered safe during pregnancy, making it a preferred choice for managing influenza in pregnant individuals.

Administering a flu vaccine is an important preventive measure but is not the immediate response after an exposure; it is more about future protection. Starting an antiviral only after symptoms appear is less effective, as early intervention can greatly enhance outcomes. Immediate use of antibiotics is not appropriate in this context, as influenza is a viral infection and antibiotics do not treat viral illnesses.