One demographic urged to get a flu vaccine ‘as soon as possible’

Leading medical bodies representing more than 90,000 health professionals have issued an urgent plea for pregnant women flu vaccine Without delay, as NHS Figures show continued record levels Fever-Connected admitted to hospital For this time of year.

Despite a slight slowdown in growth rate, the average 3,140 flu patients According to the latest data, hospital beds were being occupied every day.

This figure is higher than admissions in the same period over the past two years, underscoring the ongoing pressure on health services. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to serious complications from flu, with data indicating that they are more likely than the general population to experience adverse outcomes, while their babies are at increased risk of hospitalization.

In response, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RCOG), the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) have united to emphasize the vital importance of vaccination. They advise women to consult their maternity teams GPHighlighting that flu vaccine Provides significant protection even after flu season.

RCOG President Dr Alison Wright stressed the efficacy and safety of the vaccine. “Getting a flu vaccine during pregnancy is the most effective way to protect women and their babies from becoming seriously ill from the flu,” she said. “This vaccine is safe, and boosts maternal antibodies against flu, which are transmitted to the baby before birth for maximum protection. It’s not too late to get vaccinated.” Dr. Wright urged all health professionals to actively recommend vaccination to pregnant women at every opportunity.

Gill Walton, chief executive of the Royal College of Midwives, acknowledged the enormous amount of information women receive during pregnancy, 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 get a flu vaccine, if she hasn’t already,” she said.

“It offers the strongest protection during pregnancy and significantly reduces the risk of becoming seriously unwell or needing hospital care.” Ms Walton said midwives are a trusted source of advice, ready to discuss any concerns about vaccination, including safety, and have confirmed the safety of the vaccine at all stages of pregnancy, and noted its protective benefits for babies in their vulnerable first months.

Professor Steve Turner, chair of the RCPCH, warned against downplaying the virus, especially for children. “Many people make the mistake of believing that the flu is a bad disease. Cold,” he said. “Flu viruses can cause very serious infections with lifelong implications for children and particularly infants.” Professor Turner stressed that these infections and subsequent hospital admissions are placing huge pressure on the NHS, but are largely preventable through vaccination. The RCPCH has published a flu vaccine factsheet to support parents and carers. available here,

Oliver Picard, president of the National Pharmacy Association, confirmed the widespread availability of the vaccine. “Most independent pharmacies are telling us they still have good stock availability and are able to vaccinate patients promptly,” he said. He joined the Royal Colleges in urging all at-risk groups to get vaccinated, reiterating that flu can cause serious illness and pose a risk to unborn babies. He encouraged individuals to get the quick and almost painless jab at their local pharmacy or GP practice.