Mums-to-be in Oxfordshire are being urged to get the flu vaccine to protect themselves and their babies as soon as possible, no matter what stage of pregnancy.
This year all pregnant women are being offered the seasonal flu vaccination, which will protect them from the three viruses which are expected to be circulating this season.
Gail Stockford, Oxfordshire PCT immunisation manager, said: “Pregnant women are encouraged to have a seasonal flu vaccination at any stage in their pregnancy. This will not only protect them, but also offers protection to the baby for the first four-six months of life, and reduces the risk of premature birth and a low birth weight baby. Pregnant women are five times more likely to need to be admitted to hospital and seven times more likely to die than somebody who is not pregnant and catches flu.
“I know that some people are concerned about the safety of the flu jab, and it feels unusual for us to be encouraging pregnant women to be vaccinated. However, the seasonal flu vaccine has been extensively tested and is a safe way to protect mother and baby. The vaccine does not contain a live virus, so it cannot cause flu. Please talk to your midwife, practice nurse or GP if you have any concerns."
