Leading medical bodies across the UK have issued a united and urgent call for pregnant women to receive their flu vaccination without delay. This comes as NHS England data reveals hospital admissions for influenza remain at unprecedented levels for this time of year.
Record Hospital Admissions and Heightened Risks
Recent statistics show a daily average of 3,140 flu patients occupying hospital beds in England, a figure that surpasses the numbers seen in the same period over the past two years. While the rate of increase has slowed, the overall pressure on the health service remains severe.
Medical evidence clearly indicates that pregnant women face a significantly higher risk of developing serious complications from the flu compared to the general population. Furthermore, newborn infants are more susceptible to hospital admission if they contract the virus.
A Vital Step for Mother and Baby
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 collectively stressing the importance of vaccination. They emphasise that both expectant mothers and their newborns are among the groups at highest risk during the winter flu season.
Dr Alison Wright, President of the RCOG, stated: "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. It is not too late to get vaccinated."
Gill Walton, Chief Executive of the RCM, acknowledged that pregnancy can be an overwhelming time but highlighted the simplicity of this protective measure. "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. The vaccine has been proven safe at all stages of pregnancy and continues to shield babies in their vulnerable first months of life.
Easing Pressure on the NHS and Protecting Children
Professor Steve Turner, President of the RCPCH, warned that children are experiencing very high levels of flu this winter, clarifying that influenza is far more serious than a common cold. "The flu virus can cause very serious infections with lifelong implications for children, and especially infants," he explained.
He added that these preventable infections are placing immense strain on health services. Vaccinating both pregnant women and children is presented as a key solution to reduce hospital admissions and ease the burden on the NHS during its busiest period.
In support of this, the RCPCH has published a flu vaccine factsheet for parents and carers. Furthermore, Oliver Picard, Chair of the National Pharmacy Association, confirmed that most independent pharmacies have good stock availability and can administer the jab promptly, offering an accessible route for those in at-risk groups.
Women are encouraged to speak to their midwife, GP, or local pharmacy to arrange their flu vaccination, a quick and simple step that offers crucial protection during the ongoing seasonal surge.
