Leading medical organizations representing over 90,000 health professionals have urgently called for pregnant women to receive their flu vaccine promptly. This plea follows alarming NHS figures that show a record number of flu-related hospital admissions during this period. On average, approximately 3,140 flu patients occupied hospital beds daily, a figure that surpasses admissions from the same time in the past two years.
Pregnant women are at a heightened risk for severe complications from the flu. Research indicates that they are more likely than the general population to experience serious outcomes, with their infants also facing increased hospitalization risks. In response to this critical situation, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) have emphasized the importance of vaccination.
The organizations encourage women to consult their maternity teams or general practitioners regarding the flu vaccine, which remains a vital source of protection even later in the flu season. Dr Alison Wright, president of the RCOG, highlighted the vaccine’s effectiveness and safety. “Having the flu vaccine during pregnancy is the most effective way to protect women and their babies from getting seriously unwell with flu,” she stated. Dr Wright noted that the vaccine boosts maternal antibodies against the virus, providing important protection for infants before birth. “It is not too late to get vaccinated,” she added.
In addition to urging pregnant women, Dr Wright called on all healthcare professionals to recommend vaccination to expectant mothers whenever possible. Gill Walton, chief executive of the RCM, acknowledged the overwhelming information women receive during pregnancy but stressed that the vaccine should be prioritized. “One of the simplest and most effective steps a woman can take to protect both herself and her baby is to have the flu vaccine if she hasn’t already,” she explained. Walton also reassured that midwives are well-equipped to discuss any concerns regarding vaccination safety and confirmed that the flu vaccine is safe at all stages of pregnancy.
The health risks of flu extend beyond pregnant women, as highlighted by Professor Steve Turner, president of the RCPCH. He warned against underestimating the virus, particularly for children. “Many people are mistaken in believing that flu is simply a bad cold,” he said. “The flu virus can cause very serious infections with lifelong implications for children, and especially infants.” Professor Turner emphasized that these infections contribute to significant strain on the NHS, yet they are largely preventable through vaccination.
To support parents and caregivers, the RCPCH has published a flu vaccine factsheet. Interested individuals can access it for guidance on vaccination benefits and safety.
In terms of accessibility, Oliver Picard, chair of the National Pharmacy Association, confirmed that the flu vaccine is widely available. “Most independent pharmacies are telling us they still have good stock availability and are able to vaccinate patients promptly,” he stated. He echoed the call from the Royal Colleges for all at-risk groups to get vaccinated, reiterating the severe illness flu can cause and its risks to unborn babies. Picard encouraged individuals to seek a quick and almost painless vaccination at their local pharmacy or GP practice.
The collective message from leading medical bodies is clear: timely vaccination against the flu is essential for pregnant women to protect themselves and their babies during this challenging flu season.
