GP calls for pregnant women and young children to have lifesaving flu vaccine

This year’s drive to protect the most vulnerable people against the winter flu virus has started, with pregnant women and young children living in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire among the first to be called forward.

Women who are pregnant, along with children aged either two or three years old, are particularly susceptible to the nasty side effects of flu and are encouraged to take up the offer of the free vaccination as early as possible.

Getting the flu vaccine, which is also available to children aged between six months and 18 years with long-term health conditions, is the best form of protection against what is often wrongly described as just a heavy cold.

Dr Francis Campbell, GP Partner at Elm Tree Surgery in Swindon, said: “Families with young children, as well as women who are currently pregnant, should arrange their flu vaccinations as early as possible.

“Getting protected sooner rather than later gives families the best possible chance of staying healthy throughout the winter and avoiding becoming seriously ill.”

“The risk of flu to pregnant women is greater than most, as the virus affects not only mum, but also the baby.

“Having the flu vaccine is a simple, free and safe step that pregnant women can take to protect themselves and their baby from what can be a devastating illness, which is why getting vaccinated should be high on the priority list for all expectant mothers.”

Flu vaccines are available at any stage of pregnancy, and can be obtained from a number of locations, including GP practices, pharmacies and midwife clinics.

The vaccine is also available for two and three-year-olds, and has a dual role in offering protection from flu, while at the same time preventing little ones from passing the virus on to family members and other children.

Georgia Barker, a working mum in the NHS, has plans to get her toddler Ziggy vaccinated in the coming weeks.

The operational manager for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board said: “Getting Ziggy protected really is a no-brainer, as it supports him to stay healthy, and in turns keeps him happy, which is everything we could want for our little boy.

“It also reduces the chance of me having to take time off work during the winter months, which is traditionally one of the busiest times of year for the NHS, so taking Ziggy for his flu vaccine is definitely a win-win for our family.”

The child flu vaccine, which is available from GP practices and pharmacies, is usually given as a spray in each nostril and is considered a quick and painless procedure. 

Ziggy’s mum Georgia added: “He thinks the flu vaccine is a special potion which goes up his nose to keep the bugs away.”

While flu vaccine invitations have already been sent to those who are eligible, people do not need to wait until contacted before booking their appointment.

The national booking service is currently open, and can be accessed online at www.nhs.uk, through the NHS App or over the phone by calling 119.

Further details on the flu vaccine, including who is eligible for a free vaccination, can be found online at www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth.