WNC are promoting free flu vaccinations for pregnant women.
Vaccination gives protection for pregnant women and their unborn child
Pregnant women across West Northamptonshire are being encouraged to take up the free flu vaccine offer ahead of the winter months.
Pregnant women, and their unborn child, are at a higher risk of complications and more severe conditions such as pneumonia, as the immune system naturally weakens during pregnancy. Flu can also affect the growth of their baby, which could lead to still birth. There is a higher risk of pregnant women being admitted to hospital due to flu than the general population.
In 2023-2024 64% of pregnant women, in West Northamptonshire did not get vaccinated against flu, increasing the likeliness of them catching the seasonal flu infection. This year, West Northamptonshire Public Health are encouraging pregnant women to get vaccinated as soon as they can.
We are starting to see an increase in respiratory infections within the community and with the colder weather there will be more mixing and movement indoors, which will lead to an increase in the spread of all viruses, including flu. It is, therefore, important that those who are pregnant get vaccinated as soon as possible.
