Pregnant women are being encouraged to take up the offer of free vaccinations this winter to help protect themselves and their babies from serious illness.
Midwives at North Cumbria Integrated Care (NCIC) are reminding expectant mothers of the importance of having the flu, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and whooping cough vaccinations during pregnancy. These vaccines provide vital protection at a time when both mother and baby can be more vulnerable to severe infection.
Winter viruses can lead to serious complications during pregnancy, increasing the risk of illness, hospital admission and, in some cases, premature birth. Vaccination helps protect pregnant women while also passing antibodies to their baby, helping to safeguard them during the first weeks and months of life when they are too young to receive some vaccinations themselves.
Melissa Gildert, Maternity Nurse at NCIC said:
"Getting vaccinated during pregnancy is one of the best ways to protect both yourself and your baby. Winter illnesses such as flu, RSV and whooping cough can be serious for newborn babies and can also make pregnant women very unwell. These vaccines are safe, effective and provide vital protection at a time when it is needed most."
Flu can cause serious illness during pregnancy and increase the risk of complications for both mother and baby. The flu vaccine helps reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation during the winter months.
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is the virus behind common coughs and colds. Though most people manage and recover well, there are some people that are particularly vulnerable and will often require hospital admissions or support, these include premature babies and babies under the age of 6 months. RSV can often lead to more severe respiratory conditions, such as Bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Pregnant women can have the RSV vaccine from 28 weeks and again can be given for the remainder of the pregnancy, the earlier the woman receives it, the more immunity for baby. The only protection baby will get from RSV is from the vaccination that mum receives during pregnancy.
The whooping cough vaccine helps protect babies from a highly contagious infection that can be particularly dangerous in the first few months of life. Vaccination during pregnancy allows protective antibodies to pass from mother to baby before birth.
NCIC are encouraging pregnant women to speak to their midwife, GP practice or maternity team if they have any questions about vaccination.
Melissa continued:
"I myself am 8 months pregnant and have taken up the offer of all vaccinations, as it was one of the first things I could actively do to protect my baby. By getting vaccinated, you're not only protecting yourself, you are giving your baby the best possible start in life. I would encourage all pregnant women to take up these important vaccinations as soon as they are offered."
Pregnant women will be offered their vaccinations through their community midwife via their routine appointments. Or they can book an appointment for one of our clinics using the Be Wise Immunise link. Anyone with questions or concerns is encouraged to speak to a healthcare professional for advice.