Pregnant Woman in Intensive Care with Severe Flu After European Vacation
A 29-year-old pregnant woman in her 13th week is in serious condition in the intensive care unit at the Galilee Medical Center after contracting influenza A during a European vacation.
A 29-year-old pregnant woman, Shiri (pseudonym), who is in her 13th week of her first pregnancy, was hospitalized in serious condition at the Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya after contracting the influenza A virus during a family vacation in Europe.
Hospitalization and Intensive Care
Shiri, who is generally healthy and takes no regular medications, returned from Europe with flu symptoms including a 40-degree fever, shortness of attention, and a dry cough. According to Dr. Elias Andreas, a senior physician in the general intensive care unit at the Galilee Medical Center, other family members also fell ill during the trip. Upon arrival, a swab test confirmed influenza A, and she was initially hospitalized in an internal ward.
"The concern is the possibility of deterioration in the lung inflammation due to the flu, and she requires significant oxygen support," explained Dr. Andreas.
During her hospitalization, her respiratory condition deteriorated due to secondary bacterial pneumonia. She was transferred to the intensive care unit, where she is receiving antibiotic and antiviral treatments alongside heavy oxygen support.
Condition of the Fetus and Medical Warnings
Regarding her pregnancy, doctors stated it is currently difficult to assess if there is a threat to the fetus, though she has reported no bleeding. She is scheduled for further diagnostic evaluations.
Prof. Masad Barhoum, director of the Galilee Medical Center, emphasized the critical importance of annual flu vaccinations, particularly for pregnant women, the elderly, and chronic patients. Shiri is the fourth patient with severe influenza A admitted to the department in recent days, prompting renewed calls for public vaccination and basic hygiene practices.
