Pregnant women urged to take up free flu vaccine at DBTH clinics

Pregnant women can receive a free flu vaccination alongside antenatal care at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH), with the Trust encouraging those who have not yet taken up the offer to do so ahead of winter. More than 250 mums-to-be have been vaccinated through DBTH maternity services since the programme began in September. The vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy and helps protect women and their babies. Flu can be more serious during pregnancy, while vaccination also offers babies protection during the first few months after birth. Women attending an antenatal clinic across the Trust can ask to receive the vaccine during their visit. They can also arrange a separate appointment by speaking to their midwife or calling the Community Hub on 01302 642794. Kat Taylor, Specialist Midwife for Public Health at DBTH, said: “It’s encouraging that more than 250 mums-to-be have already put their arms forward since September. If you haven’t had your flu vaccine yet, there is still time. “Flu is much more than just a bad cold and can be serious during pregnancy. The vaccine is a quick, safe and free way to help protect you from becoming seriously unwell, and it also helps protect your baby during those important first few months after birth.” Lois Mellor, Director of Midwifery at DBTH, said offering vaccinations with antenatal appointments made access easier and encouraged women who had not yet been vaccinated to speak to their midwife. The free vaccine is also available from GP surgeries and participating community pharmacies. Further information is available from midwives or by searching ‘NHS flu vaccine’ online.