NHS health leaders urge pregnant women to book vital flu, RSV and whooping cough vaccinations

NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin health leaders are urging all pregnant women in the area to come forward and receive their free NHS vaccinations against flu, whooping cough and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) to help protect themselves and their babies. 

Getting vaccinated in pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and complications during pregnancy. It also provides vital early protection for babies, as antibodies produced by the mother are passed to the baby in the womb, helping to protect them during their first weeks and months of life. 

As well as protecting babies in those first few weeks, vaccinations also help protect the pregnant mother. Pregnancy naturally changes the immune system, heart and lungs, meaning pregnant women are more likely to become seriously unwell if they catch flu and RSV.  

The flu vaccine is safe to have at any stage of pregnancy. The whooping cough vaccine is routinely offered from 16 weeks of pregnancy, and the RSV vaccine is offered from 28 weeks of pregnancy to help protect newborn babies from serious infection. 

Vanessa Whatley, Interim Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Shropshire Telford and Wrekin, said: 

“Vaccination in pregnancy is one of the most important things expectant mothers can do to protect themselves and their babies. RSV, flu and whooping cough can all cause serious illness, particularly for newborns, but these vaccines offer safe and effective protection.” 

She added: 

“These vaccinations not only help keep mothers well during pregnancy but also give babies vital protection during the first months of life when they are most vulnerable. We strongly encourage all pregnant women to take up the vaccines they are offered.” 

How, where and when to Get Your Vaccine: 

Flu vaccine: Eligible pregnant women are encouraged to book a free NHS flu vaccination at any stage of pregnancy through their GP surgery, participating community pharmacies, the NHS App, or the NHS.uk booking system. 

Whooping cough vaccine: The whooping cough vaccine is routinely offered by a midwife or GP from 16 weeks of pregnancy, usually at the mid-pregnancy 20-week scan. Women who have not been offered the vaccine by 20 weeks should contact their midwife or GP as soon as possible. 

RSV vaccine: Pregnant women from 28 weeks can get the RSV vaccine through their midwife or GP surgery. In some areas, the vaccine is also available at selected pharmacies. 

Pregnant women are encouraged to speak to their midwife, GP or pharmacist if they have any questions or concerns about vaccinations during pregnancy. 

For more information about vaccinations in pregnancy, including flu, whooping cough and RSV, click here.