Who’s in the ‘At Risk Group’ The flu is more severe in people aged 65 years and over and anyone with a chronic medical condition. Chronic medical conditions include chronic heart conditions, chronic respiratory disease, including asthma, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, and immunosupression due to disease or treatment. Why do pregnant women need to get seasonal flu vaccine? Pregnant women are more likely to get complications from flu due to changes in their heart and lung function. Getting flu in pregnancy may also lead to premature birth and smaller birth weight. The seasonal flu vaccine will provide protection and can be given at any stage of pregnancy.