Pregnant women in the borough are being urged to get their flu jabs as soon as possible.

Expectant mothers have a weakened immune system and are therefore at much higher risk of complications from flu. They are also much more likely to end up in hospital with complications, putting both their own lives and that of their unborn child at risk.

Thousands of pregnant women failed to get the vaccination last year.

Research suggests the virus could be even more harmful this year if it is caught along with Covid-19. Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said:

“Flu is a serious condition that kills, on average, 11,000 people in England each year and hospitalises many more.

“The free vaccine is more important than ever to help protect the nation from a double threat this winter.

“That is why I am encouraging all pregnant women – one of the highest at risk groups - to have the vaccine as soon as possible so they are protected from flu viruses circulating this winter.”

Dr Fiona Rose, a borough GP, is pregnant and is getting the vaccine. She added:

“Flu vaccination in pregnancy is vitally important. When you are pregnant your immune system is suppressed, making you more vulnerable to serious health problems.

“I am getting the vaccine to protect myself and my baby from the serious consequences the flu can cause.

”This year, particularly, it is vitally important because if you catch Covid-19 and the flu together you are more likely to become seriously unwell.

”Flu vaccination is free to pregnant women and can be given in any trimester.

”Give yourself and your unborn baby the best chance of avoiding flu this winter, and book yourself a flu vaccine.”

Pregnant women should speak to their GP, maternity service provider or participating pharmacy as soon as possible.

Overall, nearly two-thirds of eligible people received their free vaccine last year, making uptake rates in England among the highest in Europe.

For more information on flu, go to lets-get.com.