News / New mums in flu vaccination appeal
A GROUP of local mums have put their names behind a flu immunisation campaign after recent NHS Shetland figures revealed that only half of pregnant women are taking up the offer of free vaccination.
The NHS says the vaccine is the best defence against the flu virus and protects expectant mums’ health and the health of their unborn child.
Pregnant women are at greater risk of experiencing complications if they catch flu, with statistics showing they are more likely to deliver prematurely or even experience a miscarriage or stillbirth.
Jennifer Murray, who gave birth to her baby girl Jada in November, said: “During my pregnancy I had enough on my mind, and getting flu was not part of the plan.
“I decided early on in my pregnancy that I would much rather get vaccinated than be stressed out worrying about the consequences of flu.
“Getting the vaccine only took a few minutes, was pain free, and offered me the best defence against the virus. It was a stress-free experience and I would encourage others to consider getting the vaccine for peace of mind.”
Gillian Smith of the Royal College of Midwives Scotland said it was “critical” to stress to pregnant woman that flu is a serious illness and not just a bad cold.
“It can hit hard and fast and have a serious impact on those expecting a baby. You could experience premature labour, stillbirth or a miscarriage but also you could become seriously ill yourself.
“We are encouraging all pregnant ladies to get the vaccination.”
She added: “Over the last ten years, the flu vaccine has generally been a good match for the circulating strains of flu, and being vaccinated is the best way to help protect yourself and your baby against a virus which can cause serious illness.
“Even when the vaccine may not be as well matched to the circulating flu viruses, if you do develop flu, these symptoms may be less severe and you may be less likely to develop complications requiring you to be admitted to hospital.”
The flu vaccine is free to all expectant mothers in Scotland. More information is available through GPs, midwives or the www.immunisationscotland.org.uk website.
The flu vaccination is also available for free to people aged 65 and over, those under 65 with an underlying condition that puts them at greater risk, unpaid carers and healthcare workers
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