Pregnant women urged to have flu vaccine

The RCM and the RCOG have joined together to encourage more pregnant women to take up the free flu vaccine.  This follows news of low uptakes last year (only 4 in every 10 pregnant women) and in light of the fact that 36 pregnant women died from certain strains of flu in the UK and Ireland between 2009 and 2012.

RCM director for midwifery Louise Silverton said: “We strongly recommend that pregnant women have the flu vaccination to protect themselves and their baby from the effects of flu. We also urge midwives and other health professionals to have the vaccination to protect themselves, their family and the people they care for from the infection also.  If women have any concerns about the vaccine, we advise them to speak to their midwife or doctor to discuss the issue.”

Dr Patrick O’Brien, spokesperson for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) said: “Some women may be concerned that getting vaccinated during pregnancy might harm their baby but we want to reassure them that flu vaccination is safe, effective and can be given at any stage of pregnancy. Having the flu vaccine will also protect your baby during the first few months after birth. We strongly encourage pregnant women who haven’t had the vaccine yet, to contact their GP or midwife today.”

See the RCM statement here

RCOG statement may be viewed here