Influenza (Flu) - 2

Flu is an infection that can be in the lungs, throat, and nose. It can be caught easily from person to person and is caused by the influenza virus.

Why do I need the flu vaccination in pregnancy?
Being pregnant can reduce how deep you can breathe as the baby grows and pushes on your lungs. It can also change the way your body handles infections. If you catch flu when you are pregnant you are more likely to have serious problems such as a lung infection (pneumonia).

If you catch flu whilst you are pregnant:

  • your baby could be born early (before 37 weeks)
  • your baby could be born smaller than expected or sadly could lead to stillbirth.

The vaccination passes to your baby through your womb and helps to protect them after birth. When you breastfeed, the flu vaccination protection will pass to your baby.

What does having the flu vaccination involve?
Women who are pregnant between September and March are advised to have the flu vaccine.

It is better to have the vaccine as soon as you can during this time. The flu vaccination is an injection in your arm.

Is the flu vaccination safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Studies have shown that it is safe to have the flu vaccine at any time in your pregnancy. You can have it at the same time as the whooping cough vaccination.

Where can I get the flu vaccination and when should I get it?
You can get the flu vaccination from your antenatal clinic, GP or pharmacy. It can be given at any time in your pregnancy.

The flu vaccination is free for pregnant people.

Baby and Parent holding foot