Introduction: The influenza is an infectious viral disease, occurring annually. An infection that comes with it represents one of the biggest causes of illness and mortality in pregnant women. Therefore, in recent years, pregnant women have been recommended to be vaccinated against the influenza with an inactivated vaccine. The vaccine protects not only the mother but also the newborn a few months after birth. Purpose: We wanted to determine if the influenza vaccine is safe for pregnant women and fetuses during pregnancy and the vaccination rate for pregnant women in Slovenia and Europe. With the questionnaire, we wished to establish the reasons for non-vaccination against influenza in gestating women. Methods: In the first part of the dissertation, we used a descriptive method which helped us present the theoretical outline of the dissertation. In the second part, for purposes of better clarity, we used a meta-analysis. We researched local and foreign professional and scientific literature about the chosen theme. The internet and different databases were also helpful. The quantitative method of research was used for collecting data through website surveys among Slovene women. Results: Analysis of scientific studies showed a benefit of influenza vaccination for pregnant women and a fetus. 300 women participated in the survey, most of them were in the 26 - 30 age group, and most of them had a university degree. Out of all of the interviewees, 88% of them have not received an influenza vaccine. The most common reason for this is the lack of information about a vaccine. Discussion and conclusion: The authors of the analyzed studies conclude that the vaccine is safe for pregnant women and fetuses. Regarding vaccination rates for pregnant women in Slovenia and other European countries, we concluded that it remains low. On the other hand, experts and major health organizations recommend that women who are or will be pregnant get an inactivated influenza vaccine as soon as it is available. From different authors' statements, we can discern that influenza infection is a higher risk for the health of pregnant women and infants than the vaccine. We observed that healthcare workers represent a big part of accepting the vaccination. Pregnant women get the most information about vaccination just from them. For more effective counseling for expecting mothers, proper education of healthcare workers about the influenza vaccination for pregnant women has to be provided.
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