Respiratory Infections

Although we hear a lot about traveler’s diarrhea, respiratory infections are almost as common in travelers as is diarrhea.  And pregnant travelers are no exception.

As we point out in our chapter on pregnancy physiology, the respiratory tract during pregnancy is primed for problems.  Nasal passages are engorged, sinuses are stuffed up and the lungs are not as efficient in removing bacteria and other contaminants from the lungs.

Head colds, sore throats and sinus headaches are a common result.  And when it is flu season, pregnant women often seem the most susceptible and get the most severe disease.    Influenza in a pregnant woman can rapidly turn into pneumonia.  This is one of the reasons that they are the first to be offered flu vaccine every year when it becomes available.

International travel, often including prolonged periods of being cooped up in a closed vehicle with many other people, is one of the risk factors for influenza.  We encourage you, therefore, before taking an overseas trip to make sure you are up to date on your flu shots.

Remember that there is still no cure for the common cold.  If you develop a head cold, it is appropriate to take decongestants and antihistamines, but antibiotics should not be part of the treatment.  (See the chapter on medications.)

Antibiotics are appropriate, however, for lower respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia.  If your cough and shortness of breath are accompanied by fever, or if you are coughing up green or blood-tinged mucus, you need prompt medical attention and probably an antibiotic.