Implications for practice and research

• ■ 2009/H1N1 infection is associated with increased risk of perinatal death and preterm birth.

• ■ Infected women delivering preterm were more likely to be infected in the third trimester, be admitted into intensive care unit and have secondary pneumonia.

• ■ Further evaluation using larger sample size, rigorous matching of controls and consideration for variables lacking in current study will be advantageous.

Context

Since identification of the 2009/H1N1 influenza virus, the increased risk of maternal morbidity and mortality from this novel infection has been highlighted.1 Past pandemics and seasonal flu have shown inconsistent perinatal effects. Some data have shown increased risk of preterm birth and fetal death.2 Other studies have indicated no increased fetal risk, supported by …