Pregnant women and their unborn babies face a significantly higher risk of severe complications from this year's aggressive flu strain, prompting an urgent call from health leaders for immediate vaccination.
Record Hospitalisations Prompt Urgent Warning
NHS data reveals that flu hospital admissions in England have soared to a record level for this time of year. An average of 3,140 patients were in hospital each day with flu, a figure that surpasses the same period in the previous two years. Although the rate of increase has slowed, the numbers remain alarmingly high.
In response, a coalition of medical bodies representing over 90,000 health professionals has issued a joint plea. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) are urging all expectant mothers to get their flu jab without delay.
Why Pregnancy Increases Flu Risk
Data clearly shows that pregnant women are more susceptible than the general population to developing serious complications from influenza. Their newborn babies are also among the most vulnerable groups this winter, with a higher likelihood of hospital admission if infected.
Dr Alison Wright, President of the RCOG, emphasised the vaccine's dual protection: "Having the flu vaccine during pregnancy is the most effective way to protect women and their babies from getting seriously unwell with flu. This vaccine is safe, and boosts maternal antibodies against flu, which are passed on to the baby before birth for maximum protection."
She added that it is not too late to get vaccinated and called on all healthcare professionals to recommend it at every opportunity.
Midwives Offer Reassurance and Support
Gill Walton, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives, acknowledged that pregnancy can be an overwhelming time but stressed the simplicity of this protective step. "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 said.
Walton highlighted the vital role of midwives as trusted advisors who can address any safety concerns, confirming that the flu vaccine has been shown to be safe at all stages of pregnancy and continues to protect infants in their first vulnerable months.
Women can easily access the vaccine through their GP or maternity services.
Protecting Children and Easing NHS Pressure
The warning extends beyond maternity care, as children are also experiencing very high levels of flu. Professor Steve Turner, President of the RCPCH, cautioned against underestimating the virus. "Many people are mistaken in believing that flu is simply a bad cold. The flu virus can cause very serious infections with lifelong implications for children, and especially infants," he stated.
He explained that these preventable infections are placing immense strain on the health service. Vaccinating both pregnant women and children remains the best defence against severe illness and a crucial measure to alleviate pressure on the NHS during the busy winter period.
