Leading medical bodies representing over 90,000 health professionals have issued an urgent call for pregnant women to get their flu vaccine as soon as possible.
Record NHS Pressure from Winter Flu
This plea comes as the latest NHS figures reveal a sustained record level of flu-related hospital admissions for this time of year. Although the rate of growth has slowed slightly, an average of 3,140 flu patients were occupying hospital beds each day. This number is higher than admissions recorded during the same period in the previous two years, highlighting the severe ongoing strain on health services.
Pregnant women face a significantly higher risk of severe complications from the flu compared to the general population. Data shows they are more likely to experience serious adverse outcomes, and their newborn babies also have an increased risk of needing hospital care.
United Front from Royal Medical Colleges
In response, 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 united to emphasise the critical importance of vaccination. They advise women to speak to their maternity team or GP, confirming that the jab offers vital protection even later in the flu season.
Dr Alison Wright, President of the RCOG, underscored the vaccine's safety and effectiveness. "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. "This vaccine is safe, and boosts maternal antibodies against flu, which are passed on to the baby before birth for maximum protection. It is not too late to get vaccinated."
Gill Walton, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives, acknowledged the volume of information expectant mothers receive but highlighted the vaccine as a clear priority. "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. She added that midwives are a trusted source of advice for any concerns.
Symptoms of Flu to Watch For
The NHS lists flu symptoms, which come on quickly, as including:
- A sudden high temperature
- An aching body
- Feeling exhausted
- A dry cough
- A sore throat and headache
- Loss of appetite, diarrhoea, or feeling sick
Warning Against Underestimating the Virus
Professor Steve Turner, President of the RCPCH, warned against mistaking flu for a bad cold. "The flu virus can cause very serious infections with lifelong implications for children, and especially infants," he said. He stressed that these preventable infections are placing immense strain on the NHS.
Oliver Picard, Chair of the National Pharmacy Association, confirmed the vaccine's widespread availability. "Most independent pharmacies are telling us they still have good stock availability and are able to vaccinate patients promptly," he said, encouraging at-risk groups to seek a quick jab at their local pharmacy or GP practice.
