Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith - 9/7/2009

Question
Hi.Im 27 weeks pregnant and currently exposed on A(H1N1) patient which also happenned to be my housemate.We are both working in the hospital which i believe that he got the virus.Being exposed,I was hurriedly consulted a doctor specializing in infectious disease.My doctor done a throat swab at me but the result will be out on September 10,2009. I don't feel any sign and symptoms about the flu but,the doctor decided to give me augmentin 1gram twice daily.my question is,since i was exposed...do i have to take the augmentin even if i don't i feel anything?him very much worried about my baby..and what will be the risk?Thank you and I will appreciate your immediate answer.  

Answer
Dear Kei

Augmentin will do nothing here and really think that it is a waste of time taking it if you have no symptoms. Augmentin is of no use against viral infections.

Re the second part of your question, I do not think anybody would be willing to give you a straight answer here as we are still delving into unknown realms regarding risk factors of H1N1 in pregnancy. Unfortunately there is a definite risk but there again many pregnancies are unharmed from both the babys' and mothers' side. At the moment I would just hope you are/do not get infected with the virus and take it from there with your obstetrician.

Regards

Dr Alan Galbraith