Regional Chief Midwife urges pregnant women in the East of England to get free flu jab

Thousands of women in the region last year failed to get vaccinated leaving themselves and their unborn babies vulnerable to the deadly flu virus.

Wendy Matthews, Regional Chief Midwife for NHS England and NHS Improvement, said: “The flu is a highly infectious illness, which can be very serious during pregnancy for both mums-to-be and their babies.

“I urge all pregnant women to have the vaccine as soon as possible so they are protected from flu viruses circulating this winter.

“The vaccine is free and will provide vital protection for pregnant women and their babies.

“During pregnancy, a woman’s immune system can be compromised and leaves her less able to fight off infections, leading to a greater risk of illness.”

She added: “I can assure everyone that the flu jab is safe and it’s impossible to get flu from the vaccine because the adult vaccine doesn’t contain live viruses.

“This winter will be like no other with the presence of Covid-19 in our communities. Flu, which can be deadly or need hospital treatment, poses additional threats during the pandemic.

“So, if you are pregnant and haven’t yet had your vaccine, please speak with your GP, maternity service provider or local participating pharmacy as soon as possible.”

For further information visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/flu-influenza-vaccine/