BALTIMORE -- It's extremely important for pregnant women to get the flu vaccine because their immune systems tend to be weaker, according to doctors.

Docs: Flu Shots Good For Pregnant Women
Web Extra: Dr. Perkins Interview

Mercy Medical Center OB/GYN Dr. Karen Perkins said getting the vaccine is important for women who are expecting.

"The whole pregnancy puts them in a state where there's suppression of the immune system," Perkins said.

She said that means pregnant women can contract colds and the flu more easily than other women, and if they get the flu, it's worse.

"It usually last a lot longer for her. The symptoms may be more intense, and lots of times, we see them here in the hospital because the get so dehydrated and so sick," Perkins said.

Perkins said some women avoid the vaccine because they fear it will harm their unborn baby, but that's not the case.

"Those moms who do get the flu vaccine, it actually not only protects the baby in utero, but also protects them six months out from delivery," Perkins said.