Flu can be more serious during pregnancy, and vaccination helps protect both women and their babies.
From 1 September, the vaccine will be available to pregnant women attending antenatal clinics across the Trust. Women can receive their vaccination when they attend a clinic or, if they would prefer, arrange a dedicated appointment.
To book an appointment, women can speak to their midwife or contact the Community Hub on 01302 642794.
The flu vaccination is free for pregnant women and can be given at any stage of pregnancy.
Kat Taylor, Specialist Midwife for Public Health at DBTH, said: “Flu is much more than just a bad cold and can be serious during pregnancy.
“The flu 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.
“We want to make getting vaccinated as easy as possible, so if you’re attending one of our antenatal clinics from 1 September, please speak to your midwife or the team. I’d encourage all pregnant women to take up the offer this season.”
Lois Mellor, Director of Midwifery at DBTH, said: “Keeping women and babies safe and well throughout pregnancy is at the heart of our maternity services, and vaccination is an important part of that.
“By offering the flu vaccine alongside antenatal care, as well as providing the option to book a dedicated appointment, we hope to make it as convenient as possible for women to protect themselves and their baby ahead of winter.”
Pregnant women can also receive their free flu vaccination through their GP surgery or participating community pharmacies.
The national NHS booking system is already open, with appointments for pregnant women available from 1 September.
Women can search ‘NHS flu vaccine’ online to find out more or book an appointment.
