“Flu vaccination in pregnancy protects both mothers and babies.”
2nd December 2015
The Miscarriage Association is supporting the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG) and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) in encouraging more pregnant women to come forward for the free flu vaccine this winter.
In a statement issued last month, Dr Patrick O’Brien, spokesperson for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) said:
“Any viral infection, including seasonal flu, can cause harm to a mother and baby during pregnancy. It can also be serious for newborn babies if they catch the infection from their mothers.
“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.”
* We understand that many women and their partners will worry about the risk of the flu jab causing miscarriage. It may help to know that the evidence shows that the risks of flu to mother and baby are much higher than the risks of the vaccine.
You can also read Public Health England’s guidance for doctors here.
