Seasonal Affective Disorder

Posted on January 21, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as seasonal depression, is a type of depression that is triggered by the change of seasons. It usually starts in late fall or early winter and goes away in spring and summer. This is called winter-pattern SAD or winter depression.

Seasonal affective disorder affects about 5% of adults in the U.S. It tends to start in young adulthood (usually between the ages of 18 and 30).

The American Psychiatric Association classifies SAD as major depressive disorder with seasonal patterns and can cause a person to experience mood changes and symptoms of depression. Symptoms of depression can include:

A persistent mood of sadness, anxiousness, or emptiness most of the day, nearly every day for at least weeks

Feelings of hopelessness or negativity

Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness

A loss of interest or pleasure in favorite hobbies and activities

Fatigue, decreased energy, or a slowed down feeling

Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

Changes in sleep, appetite, or unplanned weigh changes

Physical aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that have an unknown cause and don’t go away with treatment

Thoughts of death, suicide, or suicide attempts

Winter-pattern seasonal affective disorder can cause additional symptoms, including:

Oversleeping

Overeating, with cravings for carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain

Social withdrawal

Although it is rare, people can experience summer-pattern SAD, or summer depression, which starts in the late spring or early summer and ends in the fall. Symptoms for summer-pattern SAD include:

Insomnia

Anxiety

A poor appetite that leads to weight loss

Restlessness and agitation

Aggressive or violent behavior

Unfortunately, researchers are unsure of what causes seasonal affective disorder. However, studies indicate that people with SAD, especially winter-pattern SAD, have reduced levels of serotonin, the brain chemical that helps regulate mood. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, there is research that also suggests that sunlight affects levels of molecules that help maintain normal serotonin levels. Shorter daylight hours may prevent these molecules from functioning properly, which can contribute to a decrease in serotonin levels in the winter.

A vitamin D deficiency may worsen problems associated with winter-pattern SAD because vitamin D is believed to promote serotonin activity. Vitamin D can be consumed in food and can also be produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. With less daylight in the winter, people with SAD may have lower levels of vitamin D, which further reduces serotonin activity.

In addition to lower vitamin D levels, there are other studies that suggest that both forms of SAD relate to altered levels of melatonin, the hormone that is key for maintaining the normal sleep/wake cycle. People who have winter-pattern SAD can produce too much melatonin, which can increase sleepiness and lead to oversleeping.

It is important to note that you shouldn’t try to diagnose yourself if you are experiencing symptoms of SAD. See a healthcare provider to be properly evaluated as you may be suffering from depression for another reason. A healthcare provider may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist who will assess your pattern of symptoms and determine if you have seasonal depression or another mood disorder.

Although there isn’t a blood test or scan to diagnose seasonal depression, a healthcare provider may recommend testing to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms, including testing your thyroid to make sure that it is functioning properly.

There are several treatment options for SAD, including:

Light therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Antidepressant medication

Spending time outdoors

Vitamin D supplements

If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. In life-threatening situations, call 911.

To find out more about our mental health services or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or call (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

6 Hip Mobility Exercises That Can Boost Strength and Flexibility

Posted on January 16, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

The hips play an important role in our ability to walk, sit, stand, and even climb flights of stairs. Having weak, tight, or inflexible hips can be caused by prolonged periods of sitting without breaks, poor posture, injuries, or muscle imbalances.

When our hip mobility declines, it can lead to discomfort, stiffness, and even pain. Maintaining hip mobility is essential for overall health and well-being, especially as we age. Here are 6 hip mobility exercises that can boost strength and flexibility:

Seated figure 4 stretch: This stretch works to gently open your hip and target the muscles that work to rotate it.

Steps to perform the seated figure 4 stretch:

While sitting, cross your ankle over your opposite knee
Lean forward slowly and hold for 30-60 seconds

Switch legs and perform 2-3 times on each side

Clamshell: This exercise works to improve your hip strength, balance, and lower body alignment.

Steps to perform the clamshell:

While lying on your side, bend your knees and stack your feet on top of one another

Lift your top knee towards the ceiling while keeping your feet together, like a clamshell

Lower your knee slowly and repeat 3 sets of 10 repetitions on each side

Bridges: This exercise helps activate your glutes, hamstrings, and core, thereby strengthening and supporting your hips and back.

Steps to perform bridges:

Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor

Push on your heels as you lift your hips until your shoulders, hips, and knees are aligned. Squeeze your glute muscles together as you reach the top of the bridge

Lower your hips slowly, and repeat 3 sets of 10 repetitions

Donkey kicks: This exercise works to strengthen your hip muscles and core, while supporting the health of your lower back.

Steps to perform donkey kicks:

Start on your hands and knees

Keeping your knee bent, lift one leg behind you until your thigh is in line with your body, by kicking your foot up towards the ceiling

Lower your leg slowly and repeat 3 sets of 10 repetitions on each side

Monster walks: This exercise works to strengthen your hips, knees, and core while improving their stability during movement.

Steps to perform monster walks:

Start in the standing position, with your knees slightly bent and your feet hip-width apart

Begin slowly stepping sideways with a wide stance

Continue stepping towards one direction for 10 repetitions and complete 3 sets towards each side

Lunges: This exercise works to strengthen your hips and improve the balance of your lower body, coordination, and mobility.

Steps to perform lunges:

In a standing position, step one foot forward, bending both knees as you lower into a lunge position

Make sure your front knee is over your ankle, and your back knee is pointing towards the floor

Push back to your starting position and complete 3 sets of 10 repetitions on each side

Hip mobility exercises help improve movement, reduce pain, and prevent injury. However, it is important to use proper techniques during your exercise routine, so you can receive the full benefits of each exercise. Here are some tips to consider that can help you correctly improve your strength and flexibility:

Always warm up first. Start with gentle movements that increase blood flow to your muscles and prepare your hips for movement

Cool down after your workout by finishing with light stretching or gentle mobility exercises to improve recovery time and help maintain flexibility

Modify, avoid, or stop any exercises that are causing you to experience any pain

Focus on proper form and perform deliberate and controlled movements to ensure that you are engaging the correct muscles, protecting your joints, and benefiting from the exercise

Slowly increase your range of motion, the repetitions you do, and the resistance you add. This will help you avoid any injuries

Keep a consistent exercise routine to improve your hip mobility and strength. This is important for maintaining them for long periods of time

Pay attention to any stiffness, soreness, pain, or discomfort in your body, and adjust your routine accordingly

Perform a combination of strength- and flexibility-based exercises as they ensure that mobility is both created and maintained. Joint health and muscle balance are also supported when you combine both types of exercises

It is recommended that you consult a doctor before starting or adding new exercises to your routine. You can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486.

Understanding Cholesterol Numbers

Posted on January 15, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Cholesterol is a type of waxy, fat-like substance, or lipid, that the body needs to function. It forms part of the cell membranes, helps the liver make bile, and serves as a building block for hormones.

There are several types of cholesterol. They include:

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is a good cholesterol that helps protect the arteries

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is bad cholesterol that causes plaque buildup in the arteries

Very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol is another type of bad cholesterol that can also cause plaque buildup in the arteries

Non-HDL cholesterol- refers to all the cholesterol in the blood, except for HDL cholesterol

Cholesterol is vital for us to live, as it does many essential jobs in the body. However, too much cholesterol in the blood is harmful as it can enter the artery wall, weakening it, leading to hardened deposits of atherosclerotic plaque to form. This is called atherosclerosis, and it can lead to problems such as:

Coronary artery disease

Peripheral artery disease

Carotid artery disease

A person can live for many years with high cholesterol and not know it. High levels of cholesterol, or hyperlipidemia, can be a risk of a heart attack or stroke. That is why it is important to get your cholesterol numbers checked on a regular basis.

When getting your cholesterol numbers checked, a healthcare provider will use a blood test called a lipid panel. A healthcare provider will check the numbers of the main levels of cholesterol. They include:

Total cholesterol: Below 200

LDL cholesterol: Below 100

VLDL cholesterol: Below 30

HDL cholesterol: 40-80 for males. 50-80 for females

The lipid panel also measures another type of fat in the blood called triglycerides.

Normal cholesterol levels can vary based on age, ethnicity, and sex.

If a person has heart disease or several risk factors, the LDL target number may be different, and a healthcare provider will want the number to be below 70.

HDL numbers are typically better when higher rather than lower. An ideal number for HDL cholesterol should be between 60 and 80 to protect against heart disease. An HDL number over 80 is too high and can be unhealthy. HDL is the only number that has sex-based differences, as females need a higher HDL level than males.

High cholesterol means that total cholesterol is 200/mg/dl or higher, or higher than normal. “Borderline high” is a phrase that healthcare providers may use to break down the results of a lipid panel. If a person’s cholesterol numbers are close to normal, they may be easier to manage. High cholesterol numbers include:

Total cholesterol: Borderline high: 200-239

High: 240 or higher

LDL cholesterol: Elevated:100-129

Borderline high: 130-159

High: 160-189

VLDL cholesterol: 30 or higher

LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol numbers should be lower rather than higher.

How often a person gets their cholesterol checked depends on their age, family history, risk factors for heart disease, and their sex, as males need more frequent tests starting at a younger age.

Males ages 20 to 44 should get their cholesterol checked every five years. Males ages 45 to 65 should get their cholesterol checked every one to two years. And males 65 years and older should get their cholesterol checked every year.

Females ages 20-54 should get their cholesterol checked every five years. Females ages 55 to 65 should get their cholesterol checked every one to two years. And females 65 and older should get their cholesterol checked every year.

It is important to know what your cholesterol numbers are, as they can help you learn about your potential risks for heart disease. A healthcare provider will look at your cholesterol numbers, as well as the other aspects of your health, to learn more about your risks of heart disease.

If you or a loved one would like to learn more about understanding cholesterol numbers, you can speak with a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

National Birth Defects Prevention Month

Posted on January 14, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

January is recognized as National Birth Defects Prevention Month. The observance was created to help raise awareness while working towards better care and highlight the efforts that help with prevention.

Hundreds of thousands of babies are born around the world each day. Some are born healthy. However, some are born with birth defects. Birth defects are structural changes that affect one or more parts of the body, such as the heart, brain, feet, and hands. Some of the common birth defects include congenital heart defects, cleft lip, spina bifida, anotia, and microtia. These defects are formed during the first three months of pregnancy when the baby’s organs are developing.

An estimated 8 million newborn babies are born with some kind of birth defect. These birth defects can range from minor to life-threatening.

Although birth defects can’t always be prevented, many of them are reliant on the lifestyle of the parents, as exposure to certain substances during pregnancy can cause issues in the development of the baby.

There are many ways to observe National Birth Defects Prevention Month, including:

Taking prenatal vitamins and supplements such as folic acid (400mcg) every day

Avoiding substances such as alcohol, drugs, both cigarette and secondhand smoke, marijuana, certain prescription medications, and any other substances that may be harmful to an unborn baby

Seeing a healthcare provider regularly during every stage of your pregnancy

Flushing Hospital Medical Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology offers comprehensive, multi-disciplinary, and culturally sensitive care. Our services are provided by a highly skilled team of the best OBGYNs in Queens. For more information, please call (718) 670-5562.

Cervical Health Awareness Month

Posted on January 13, 2026 by Flushing Hospital

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month. It is a time to raise awareness of cervical cancer’s causes and how screening and vaccination can help prevent the disease.

The National Cancer Institute estimated that over 108,000 women will be diagnosed with some form of gynecological cancer this year alone.

Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, which is the lower, narrow end of the uterus. Most cervical cancer cases are caused by various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common infection that is spread through sexual contact. The body’s immune system typically prevents the virus from causing harm. However, for a small percentage of people, the virus can survive for years. This delay can cause cervical cells to become cancer cells.

Gynecological cancer symptoms can vary, making them difficult to recognize and distinguish. Some general gynecological cancer symptoms include:

Pelvic pain
Abnormal bleeding
Abdominal bloating
Changes in your menstrual cycle
Pain during intercourse
Changes in vaginal appearance

Even if you don’t have symptoms, it is important to continue to have regular wellness exams and screenings to maintain good gynecological health.

Attending regular screenings with your primary care provider or gynecologist and receiving an HPV vaccination are two of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer. Regular Pap and HPV tests can detect early changes in cervical cells, which allows for intervention before cancer develops. It is recommended that women aged 21-29 have a Pap test every 3 years. Women 30 years old and up are advised to have a Pap test and an HPV test every five years. If you are 65 or older, the screenings will likely stop if you are considered low-risk.

The ideal age for vaccination is before a person is sexually active because once a person is infected with HPV, the vaccine may not be as effective.

All women face some risk of developing gynecologic cancer; however, certain factors can exacerbate the likelihood, including:

Age
Family history
Obesity
Smoking

Understanding individual risk factors is essential in reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer, but recognizing early warning signs is just as important.

At Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Women’s Health Department, we are passionate about meeting the various needs of women in our community. We proudly serve women from all walks of life and provide a warm, welcoming environment. To learn more about our OB/GYN services or to make an appointment, contact us at (718) 670-5562.

What is Dry January?

Posted on January 9, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

New Year’s has come and gone, and we are all trying to stick to the resolutions we made. For some, a common resolution is giving up alcohol.

Heavy social drinking can often be considered binge drinking. Binge drinking is when a man drinks five or more drinks and a woman drinks four or more drinks in one sitting.

This is why many people commit to Dry January, which is when a person gives up drinking alcohol for the entire month.

Dry January has become a very popular New Year’s resolution over the past few years. Recent research indicates that younger Americans are generally drinking less than previous generations. According to a poll released last summer, conducted by the analytics company Gallup, the percentage of Americans who said they drink fell to a record low of 54%. This is one percentage point lower than the previous record low in 1958.

There are several health benefits to participating in Dry January, including:

Increased energy levels

Lower blood pressure and heart rate

A decrease in liver inflammation

Clearer skin and decreased facial puffiness and bloating

A decrease in calorie consumption

It helps shift your perspective and understanding of your relationship with alcohol

There are many tips to help you succeed during Dry January, including:

Reduce your alcohol consumption by half before you start

Write down the goals you want to achieve and document your progress

Abstain from drinking alcohol longer if you can

Ease back into drinking alcohol if you choose to go back to drinking, and drink in moderation

Surround yourself with supportive friends and family

Be mindful of withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of withdrawal include:

- Abdominal cramping

- Anxiety

- Dizziness

- Headaches

- Nausea

- Shaking

- Sweating

- Vomiting

Avoid any situations that may tempt you to drink

Participate in hobbies and other interests that don’t involve drinking alcohol

Seek out extra help and resources if you need them

At Flushing Hospital Medical Center, our Psychiatry Department features a Division of Addiction Services where you or your loved one can receive comprehensive assessments and treatment for alcohol and chemical dependency. For more details about our unit, contact us at (718) 670-5693 or (718) 670-5540, or for additional information about our Reflections treatment program, please get in touch with us at (718) 670-5078.

How to Set Healthy Weight Loss Goals

Posted on January 8, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Embarking on a weight loss journey can be a difficult and sometimes daunting experience. There are many factors that can affect a person’s weight management, such as medical conditions, certain medicines, stress, age, genes, hormones, and environment.

However, maintaining a lifestyle that consists of a good nutritional diet, regular physical activity, stress management, and proper sleep can support a healthy weight. Additionally, people who lose weight gradually, which is about one to two pounds a week, are more likely to keep the weight off than those who lose weight more quickly.

If a person is not at a healthy weight, moderate weight loss can help improve their cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. Just a 5% to 10% reduction of their current weight may lower their risk for some chronic diseases, such as heart disease, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes. Other benefits of moderate weight loss include:

More energy

Better mobility

A boost in self-confidence

Improved fitness

Starting a weight loss journey can be challenging. However, having and following a plan can help make the journey easier. Here are five steps that can help guide you to a healthier weight:

Consider the reasons why you want to lose weight. Writing down your reasons and posting them where you can see them can help remind you why you are making this change and keep you focused on your weight loss goals

Keep track of where you are as you begin your weight loss journey. You can keep a journal of your nutrition to help you keep track of what you eat and drink in a day. Make note of your physical activity by including the time of day you exercised, what activities you did, and for how long. Maintain a chart of your sleep schedule, including what time you went to sleep and woke up, and the number of hours you slept. Monitor your stress levels and the healthy ways you are reducing your stress. You can also track how you felt during your meals, when you exercise, and any lifestyle challenges that have affected your progress

Set specific and realistic goals. Creating short-term goals with rewards can help prevent you from feeling frustrated when there is a setback. When setting short-term goals, focus on two or three goals at a time

Find a good support system. Surround yourself with family or friends who are supportive of your weight loss goals. If they have similar goals, they may share resources that have helped them on their weight loss journey

Stay up to date with your progress throughout your weight loss journey. Regularly evaluate your progress by revisiting the goals you set. Determine what has been working well and what hasn’t been, and use this information to make any changes to your goals and weight loss plan. If you are consistently meeting a particular goal, you can reward yourself for achieving your goals. It is important to recognize and be proud of your progress as you meet your goals. Rewarding yourself helps to keep you motivated and on the right path

Please note that before you start your weight loss journey, speak with your healthcare provider so you can decide whether or not it’s a good time to set a weight loss goal.

And if you do go on a weight loss journey, don’t get discouraged if you aren’t losing weight as quickly as you had hoped. Remember that sustainable weight loss takes time.

For more information about the Bariatric Surgery Services at Flushing Hospital or procedures performed by our doctors, please call 718-408-6977 or 718-670-8908.

The Importance of an Annual Dental Exam

Posted on January 7, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

It is a new year, and with it comes resolutions that we make to help improve our health and well-being. A great and important way to improve our health and well-being is to get a dental exam.

Dental exams are important because they help us maintain our oral health. Regular dental exams help detect problems early and prevent serious complications. However, not getting a dental exam can lead to serious oral health problems such as tartar buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Additionally, our oral health is connected to our overall health, as dental exams can detect signs of systemic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

Getting regular dental exams has many benefits, including:

· Detecting cavities early, as they are one of the most common dental issues. Cavities often develop without any noticeable symptoms in their early stages. If left untreated, cavities can grow, which may lead to pain, infection, or the need for extensive treatments such as root canals or crowns. Early treatment is less invasive, less expensive, and helps preserve the tooth’s natural structure. During a dental exam, a dentist can detect and treat any cavities by filling them

· Dental exams can identify early signs of gum disease, which include redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. Gum disease starts as gingivitis, and if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which is a severe condition that affects the bone and tissues that support the teeth. Early intervention can reverse gingivitis and prevent it from leading to periodontitis

· Routine dental exams can help detect oral cancer, which can develop in the mouth, tongue, or throat. Symptoms of oral cancer can include red or white patches, sores that do not heal, or unusual lumps in the mouth. Early detection is important, as regular screenings during dental exams can catch oral cancer in its early stages when treatment is most effective

· Getting routine dental exams can help dentists detect signs of teeth grinding, which include worn enamel or flattened teeth. Teeth grinding can cause significant wear and tear on the teeth, which can lead to fractures, sensitivity, and jaw pain. Early detection allows interventions such as custom night guards that can help prevent further damage to the teeth

· Routine dental exams can help dentists assess alignment and bite issues such as crooked teeth or an improper bite, which can lead to uneven wear, jaw pain, and difficulty cleaning between teeth. After an exam, a dentist may recommend treatments such as Invisalign or braces to correct these dental issues

· Routine dental exams can help dentists detect dental issues that aren’t visible when they use an X-ray. X-rays can help dentists see what is happening beneath the surface, such as

hidden cavities between the teeth, impacted teeth that may need removal, or bone loss that is caused by gum disease

Getting regular and routine dental exams is preventive care that helps us maintain our oral health and avoid dental issues. It is important to remember that detecting dental health issues early is not only good for our oral health but also contributes to helping us maintain our overall health.

If you’re experiencing dental health problems, it is important to visit a dentist to ensure you’re receiving the most effective treatment possible. To schedule an appointment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Dental Medicine, please call (718) 670-5521.

New Year’s Eve Safety Tips

Posted on December 31, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

New Year’s Eve is a time when we come together to reflect on the previous year, as we prepare to celebrate the start of a new one. However, these celebrations can come with dangers and responsibilities.

Here are a few tips to keep you and your loved ones safe this New Year’s Eve:

Plan your rides in advance. On average, driving accidents rise during the holidays, so it is extremely important to have a safe ride when so many people will be out that night celebrating. Do not assume that you will be able to get a cab. Knowing your options in advance can help you decide whether you will be taking public transportation, using a rideshare app, or carpooling with friends.

Plan for the safety of your guests. If you are going to host a party, be sure your guests get home safely. Hire a driver for the evening who can provide people with a way to get home. Stop serving alcohol at least one hour before the end of the party, provide additional food or snacks, and ensure that your guests don’t drive after drinking.

Make a plan with your kids. Set a reasonable curfew for your kids for their New Year’s Eve activities. If they are old enough to drive, be sure they understand the dangers of driving on that holiday. Encourage them to stay in one location instead of going from party to party. Discuss the dangers of driving distractions and how to avoid them. A teen passenger and teens driving with friends face a higher risk than teens who are driving alone.

Take care of your pets. New Year’s Eve can cause high anxiety in pets. You can keep them safe in the house and comfortable by drowning out any sounds outside that are loud. If your pet has a history of high anxiety, consider consulting your vet for anxiety medication.

Avoid leaving your car somewhere overnight, as New Year’s Day is the most active holiday for cars to get stolen. If you do have to leave your car overnight, make sure it is locked and try to pick it up as early as possible the next day. If you do decide to drive home, be sure to let someone know when you leave and when you get home safely.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any medical problems, you can receive treatment from a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.

Can You Breastfeed If You Have the Flu?

Posted on December 30, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

New moms often wonder whether they can continue breastfeeding their babies if they have the flu. The answer is yes, you can continue breastfeeding your baby if you have the flu.

The flu virus is not transmitted through breast milk. However, it is important to take the steps needed to protect your baby from germs. You can do this by:

Wearing a mask while breastfeeding
Limiting face-to- face contact with your baby
Frequently washing your hands before touching the baby, or items the baby might touch during breastfeeding
Frequently disinfecting surfaces
Coughing or sneezing into a tissue and throwing the tissue away immediately after use

If you are uncomfortable breastfeeding when you are sick or worried about the risk of spreading germs to your baby, you can also pump your breast milk and follow the recommendations for cleaning the pump.

In addition to following precautions to limit the spread of germs, flu vaccination is strongly recommended for moms, as it provides added protection from the virus and for their babies.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Flu vaccination is safe for breastfeeding women and their infants 6 months and older. Women who get the flu vaccine while pregnant or breastfeeding develop antibodies that are shared with infants through breast milk. Therefore, breastfeeding provides some flu protection for infants, including children younger than 6 months who cannot receive the flu vaccine.”