Recently, topics such as conjunctivitis, H1N1, chlamydia pneumonia, influenza, fever, primary school closures, and overcrowded pediatric hospitals have become trending. Those with babies at home can deeply relate, and it’s not just young children who are susceptible. Many individuals with weak constitutions, young or old, and women are prone to symptoms of influenza and colds. At this time, for preconception individuals planning to undergo IVF in the United States or pregnant women who have already succeeded in conception, there is great concern. They are afraid to go out, fearing infection by waves of viruses, which could affect IVF plans or the health of the fetus in the womb.

  • How does chlamydia pneumonia affect preconception?

Chlamydia pneumonia is a type of microorganism that is neither a virus nor a bacterium. It typically exists in the respiratory tract, digestive tract, urogenital tract, and other parts of the human body. When the body’s immune system is weakened, it may lead to the rapid proliferation of chlamydia pneumonia, causing infections in the reproductive organs and respiratory system. If chlamydia pneumonia infection leads to gynecological diseases such as cervicitis, endometritis, and salpingitis, it can reduce the chances of conception or result in poor embryonic development after conception. Therefore, serious chlamydia pneumonia infection during the preconception period, especially if treated with antibiotics, requires three months of body conditioning after recovery before considering IVF in the United States for a more secure approach.

  • Can infection with chlamydia pneumonia or influenza during pregnancy affect the fetus?

Studies by reproductive specialists have found a significant correlation between maternal colds, flu, and eight birth defects (brain malformations, spinal bifida, encephalocele, cleft lip and palate, intestinal atresia or stenosis, bilateral renal agenesis or hypoplasia, limb reduction defects, and gastroschisis). Therefore, whether it is chlamydia pneumonia infection or H1N1 infection, if there is a high fever, it must be taken seriously. Timely examination and medication at the hospital are necessary. One should not be careless or worry about the impact of medication on the fetus, as treating a cold is not always possible without medication.

Analysis of influenza hospitalization data in the United States shows that approximately one-third of reproductive-age women hospitalized for influenza during nine consecutive flu seasons from 2010 to 2019 were pregnant (on average, only 9% of reproductive-age women are pregnant each year). Pregnant women are more prone to complications if they contract the flu during pregnancy, progressing to severe influenza, influenza virus pneumonia, or secondary bacterial pneumonia, leading to rapid onset of respiratory distress, ARDS, and even multiple organ failure. Pregnant women generally have a higher mortality rate, and it can also lead to adverse outcomes for the fetus: miscarriage, preterm birth, fetal distress, and intrauterine fetal demise.

  • Can individuals planning to conceive or pregnant women get the flu vaccine?

Vaccination is currently the main means of preventing influenza, with no alternatives. The peak period of influenza outbreaks during the fall and winter seasons is considered. Doctors recommend completing influenza vaccination before the end of October. However, considering the flu season in China and the supply of influenza vaccines, the influenza prevention guidelines also suggest that whether it is before or during the flu season, whenever there is an opportunity, influenza vaccination should be carried out. Therefore, women planning to conceive should actively receive the influenza vaccine to prevent the impact of the flu on pregnancy. Pregnant women are also a key group for influenza vaccination. If you have not received the flu vaccine now, it is still not too late to get vaccinated.

  • How to protect oneself in daily life?

1. Wearing a mask when going out, reducing gatherings, and avoiding contact with people with flu symptoms are the basic conditions for preventing influenza in daily life. According to a systematic review from 2022 analyzing the role of different types of masks in respiratory virus infections, wearing masks (with high compliance) can provide significant protective effects, with N95 masks offering better protection. In addition, aspects of daily life such as diet, habits, exercise, and a relaxed mindset can help improve one’s immune system.

2. Regarding diet, it is important to maintain a balanced nutrition, drink plenty of warm water, urinate in a timely manner, consume high-quality protein, various vitamins, and antioxidant-rich foods. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, supplementing vitamins, especially for those with weak constitutions, should take appropriate vitamin C supplements every day to help boost immunity;

3. Keep warm in winter, especially for women who should not avoid wearing thermal underwear for the sake of fashion. Avoid exposing the legs and abdomen. Proper warmth and protecting the uterus are essential, especially during periods of weak constitution, such as during menstruation, to prevent influenza infection.

4. Wash hands frequently and maintain hygiene. The first thing to do when returning home is to wash hands rigorously. Keep the home environment clean and ventilated. Do not rub your eyes or touch your mouth and nose when going out, and it is not advisable to eat breakfast on public transportation, as it may increase the risk of influenza infection.

5. Exercise appropriately and avoid prolonged sitting. Whether at home or in the office, it is important to avoid prolonged sitting. Maintaining a moderate amount of physical activity every day is crucial, as it helps facilitate blood circulation, improve metabolic capacity, and enhance the body’s immunity.

6. Maintain regular sleep patterns and relax. This is also crucial for enhancing immunity, promoting the balance and stability of the endocrine system, improving ovarian function, and enhancing the quality of ovulation, laying a good foundation for IVF in the United States.