As you probably are aware, we are seeing a dramatic surge in COVID-19 cases. After two years of providing healthcare in this new environment, many of us are exhausted; we are sure you are exhausted too.
This is our special request – please get vaccinated.
With the rising COVID-19 cases in New Hampshire, we unfortunately have seen some of the sad outcomes that can occur with COVID-19. We have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of severe COVID-19 in pregnancy, seeing our patients hospitalized, some required ICU care, long term oxygen supplementation, and all of whom were in fear of harm to their baby. Compared to those who aren’t pregnant, pregnant women infected by COVID-19 with symptoms are 3 times more likely to need ICU care, 2 to 3 times more likely to need advanced life support and have a 70% increased risk of death. Severe COVID-19 can also cause issues for babies including a 60% increased risk of very premature birth, extended stays in the neonatal ICU, and risk of stillbirth. All major medical organizations and we, your doctors, feel that COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy is very safe and critically important because pregnancy is considered a high-risk condition for severe illness with COVID-19.
If you’re pregnant, get vaccinated as soon as possible. We get calls daily from unvaccinated pregnant women who recently tested positive for COVID-19, asking us how they can prevent complications from COVID-19. Unfortunately, there really isn’t anything that can be done once someone has COVID-19 other than monitor symptoms and treat a fever. The only way to prevent complications from COVID-19 is vaccination.
If you’re not pregnant, make sure you get a COVID-19 vaccine and talk to friends and family members who are pregnant and encourage them to get vaccinated. If you’re already vaccinated, thank you. Be sure to also get your booster dose.
We know that everyone is really tired of this. Please do your part and get vaccinated.
We care deeply about you so please, let’s work together to keep each other safe.