Public Health Agency of Canada
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Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women - H1N1 Flu Virus
WHO Declares H1N1 Post-Pandemic Period
On August 10, the World Health Organization declared that the H1N1 pandemic had entered the post-pandemic period (External link) 
. This decision was informed by epidemiological evidence from around the world showing the H1N1 influenza virus circulating at lower levels and taking on the behaviour of a seasonal influenza virus.
The Public Health Agency of Canada welcomes the decision by the WHO to declare the H1N1 flu pandemic over. Canada’s influenza monitoring system confirms that since the spring, the H1N1 influenza virus has been circulating in Canada in low to undetectable levels.
The Agency will continue to work with provinces, territories and international partners to monitor for the H1N1 influenza virus and will remain vigilant in preparing Canada for any future influenza outbreak.
Pregnant women are not more likely to get the H1N1 flu virus, but if they do catch the virus in their second or third trimester or within four weeks of giving birth, they are more likely to suffer complications, like pneumonia and severe respiratory distress. This can put both the mother and the fetus’ health at risk.
If you are breastfeeding and you catch the H1N1 flu virus you may be concerned about passing the virus onto your child. It is not known if the flu virus can be passed to a baby through human milk so speak to your health care professional about how to protect your baby if you become sick. If you catch the flu and are prescribed antivirals - drugs used for treating the flu - it is recommended that you continue breastfeeding.
Here is some information that pregnant and breastfeeding women can use to stay informed and prepared.
Here are some materials that were developed by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada in partnership with PHAC and a number of other national health organizations. Please use these materials as the basis for a discussion with your health care provider about your pregnancy and the H1N1 flu virus. You may also wish to visit the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada website at www.sogc.org.
Pregnant women with H1N1 face higher risk
- Poster - PDF Version
(497 kb - 1 page) - Fact Sheet - PDF Version (697 kb - 1 page)
Related H1N1 Information
- First Nations, Inuit and Métis - H1N1 Flu Virus
- H1N1 Symptoms and Information
- Taking Care of a Sick Person
- Use of Masks
- Hand Washing Techniques
- Frequently Asked Questions
- H1N1 Vaccine
- Use of Antivirals
- Guidance
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