Health bosses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire are encouraging all pregnant women to get their free flu vaccination before the flu virus starts circulating.

Flu can cause many complications during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages, such as premature births or low birth weights. In some cases, it can lead to stillbirth or even death in the first week of life.

Dr Carl Ellson, GP lead for NHS Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group said: “I would urge anyone who is pregnant to get the flu vaccination as soon as possible. During pregnancy, a woman’s immune system is naturally lower to ensure that the pregnancy is successful. As a result, pregnant women are less able to fight off infections and therefore more likely to be seriously ill if they contract the flu virus.

Health bosses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire are encouraging all pregnant women to get their free flu vaccination before the flu virus starts circulating.

Flu can cause many complications during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages, such as premature births or low birth weights. In some cases, it can lead to stillbirth or even death in the first week of life.

Dr Carl Ellson, GP lead for NHS Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group said: “I would urge anyone who is pregnant to get the flu vaccination as soon as possible. During pregnancy, a woman’s immune system is naturally lower to ensure that the pregnancy is successful. As a result, pregnant women are less able to fight off infections and therefore more likely to be seriously ill if they contract the flu virus.

“The flu vaccination is the best protection against flu. It’s safe during any stage in pregnancy, from the first few weeks through to the woman’s due date and doesn’t carry any risks for mother or baby. Women who have had the flu vaccine while pregnant also pass some protection on to their babies, which lasts for the first few months of their lives.”

Justine Jeffery, Divisional Director of Midwifery for Worcestershire Acute NHS Hospitals Trust said: “Flu can be really serious for both you and your baby. Having the flu vaccine will protect you and your baby from not only the risks of flu but the risk of serious complications such as pneumonia, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.”

“The flu vaccine will help your baby continue to have some immunity against the flu for several months after being born and will reduce the chance of you passing the flu onto your baby.”

Ask your midwife, GP or pharmacist about your free flu vaccination now. It’s free because you need it.