Alex urges expectant mums to get winter vaccines to protect themselves and their babies

A mum-to-be from Hyde is encouraging other pregnant women in Tameside to get their winter vaccinations to help protect themselves and their babies from flu and other illnesses.

Alex Hart is expecting her baby this winter and has recently received her vaccines. She first heard about the programme during her initial midwife appointment.

“From 12 weeks you get advised of the different vaccines you’ll need at different stages,” she said. “I’m getting my vaccines to make sure that my baby and me are both safe as I’ll be heavily pregnant during winter.”

Pregnant women are eligible for free flu and RSV jabs as part of the NHS winter vaccine programme, which is now underway. Vaccination is the best defence against flu and other illnesses, which can be more serious during pregnancy and lead to complications.

Flu occurs every year, usually in the winter, which is why it’s sometimes called seasonal flu – it’s not just a heavy cold. Flu can spread very easily with symptoms that come on very quickly. Vaccination provides the best protection for you and those around you. RSV is another common virus during the winter that can cause coughs and colds and can make babies and older adults seriously ill. Getting this vaccine is another way to keep protected. Pregnant women are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from both flu and RSV.

Cllr Taf Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, said: “Flu might just feel like a bad cold for some people, but for others including pregnant women, older residents and those with existing health conditions it can be much more serious”.

“Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and those around you. Our local NHS teams are working hard to make sure everyone who’s eligible can get their jabs. If you’ve had an invite or know you’re eligible, please don’t wait, book your appointment and stay safe this winter.”

With winter approaching, Alex is keen to encourage other expectant mums to take action.

“Go for it, you want to do everything you can to keep your baby safe,” she said.

The flu vaccine is available at any stage of pregnancy, while the RSV vaccine is offered later in pregnancy. Appointments can be booked through maternity services, GP practices or local pharmacies.