NHS Hampshire is urging pregnant women to protect themselves against seasonal flu by getting vaccinated as soon as possible. Flu is a highly infectious respiratory illness and is four times more likely to develop complications and a need for hospital admission in pregnant women.

Due to the additional risks identified, pregnant women are being encouraged to take up the seasonal flu vaccination if they have not already. This year, the H1N1 strain is included in the seasonal flu jab as well as two other flu strains and all pregnant women can get the seasonal flu jab, free of charge through their GP.

Therefore, the vaccine offers protection against all current strains that have been prevalent this year. Noeleen McFarland, public health manager for NHS Hampshire, said: “We are strongly advising pregnant women to take advantage of the offer of the flu jab.

“The flu vaccine has been licensed for use in pregnancy by the European Medicines Agency.

“Therefore, regardless of the stage of pregnancy, there is no evidence to suggest the vaccine will do any harm.

It will provide protection for you and your baby against the potential risks flu can cause.” As well as pregnant women, the flu jab is available to other target groups including over 65s, people with long-term health conditions and front-line health workers. While flu is a mild illness for most people, it can be very serious. If you are in the at-risk categories and have not had your free flu jab yet, then please contact your GP.