HEALTH chiefs have warned pregnant women to get a free flu vaccination before the flu virus starts circulating.
The warning comes from the NHS South Worcestershire Clinical Group who say flu can cause many complications during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages, such as premature births or low birth weights.
They add In some cases, it can lead to stillbirth or even death in the first week of life. Getting a free flu vaccination can also help prevent difficulties and keep the mother and baby safe.
A review into maternal deaths in 2014 showed nearly one in 10 deaths of new mothers was caused by flu.
More than half of these could have been prevented by the flu vaccination. Although maternal deaths are rare in the UK you are at higher risk of complications by infections such as pneumonia – particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.
Dr Carl Ellson, chief clinical officer for NHS South Worcestershire, said: “I would encourage anyone who is pregnant to get the flu vaccination as soon as possible.
“During pregnancy a woman’s immune system is naturally lower and 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.”
Women pregnant are advised to ask their midwife, GP or pharmacist about booking the free vaccination as soon as possible.
