Flu can cause many complications during pregnancy, particularly in the latter stages, such as premature birth or low birth weight.
Free flu vaccinations are available to all pregnant women via the NHS and Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “If you're pregnant, getting the flu vaccine is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your baby this winter.
“During pregnancy, you're more likely to become seriously unwell if you catch flu. Pregnancy changes the way your body responds to infections, and flu can increase the risk of complications for both you and your baby, including premature birth and low birth weight.
“The flu vaccine is free for all pregnant women, whatever stage of pregnancy they're at. It helps protect you from serious illness and also helps protect your baby during their first few months of life, when they're too young to be vaccinated themselves.
“Vaccinations are available throughout the flu season, but it's best to get vaccinated as early as possible to help protect you and your baby before flu starts to spread. Even if you've had a flu vaccine before, it's important to have one every 12 months as the flu viruses circulating each year can change.”
People who are receiving maternity care through The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust may be offered the flu vaccine during your maternity appointments, and can also arrange a referral via their midwife.
Pregnant women can also get their free flu vaccine from their GP, or at any pharmacy offering NHS flu vaccinations. Appointments can be booked through the NHS website or the NHS App. Find out more at Book, change or cancel a flu vaccination appointment.
