Pregnant women 4 times more likely to be hospitalised with swine flu

London, July 30 (ANI): Pregnant women are four times more likely to be hospitalised for swine flu and face a much higher risk of severe illness and death, according to health experts.

US researchers have revealed that the H1N1 virus is taking an "exceptionally heavy toll" on expectant mothers - accounting for at least 13 per cent of deaths worldwide.

And now, they have recommended that pregnant women with the illness should be given antivirals.

Also they have said that expectant mothers must also be given the vaccine as soon as one is ready.

When pregnant, women are always at a higher risk of infection, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy, because their immunity is suppressed. (ANI)