Pregnant women urged to get the flu jab this winter

Pregnant women in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes have been urged to come forward for a flu vaccination this winter.

With the holiday season fast approaching, there is still time to get yourself protected against flu before the gatherings with family and friends which many people will be looking forward to.

Dr Sarah Whiteman, Chief Medical Director at Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said:

“Having a flu jab is the best way to protect yourself and your baby.

“There is evidence that pregnant women have a higher chance of developing complications if they get flu, especially in the later stages of their pregnancy.

“One of the most common complications of flu is bronchitis, a chest infection which can become serious and develop into pneumonia.  If you have flu while you’re pregnant, it could cause your baby to be born prematurely, have a low birthweight and may even lead to stillbirth.

“Maybe you didn’t take up the vaccination earlier in the winter, or maybe you’ve only just found out that you’re pregnant.  Either way, you can contact your midwife or your family doctor who can advise you on where to get the jab.”

There is still time for anyone who is eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination to receive it before the Christmas and New Year period.