COVID-19 and flu vaccines in pregnancy
Please read information about COVID-19 and flu vaccines recommended in pregnancy.
The vaccine is safe and effective at any stage of pregnancy.
Vaccination is the best way to protect against the known risks of covid-19 in pregnancy for both women and babies, including admission of the woman to intensive care and premature birth of the baby.
Pregnant women may wish to discuss the benefits and risks of having the vaccine with their healthcare professional and reach a joint decision based on individual circumstances. However, as for the non-pregnant population, pregnant women can receive a covid-19 vaccine even if they have not had a discussion with a healthcare professional.
In addition, influenza (flu) can be a serious disease in pregnant women. To protect women and their babies the flu vaccination is recommended.
How to get your COVID-19 and/or flu vaccine
You can obtain a flu vaccine from your GP or local pharmacist or please speak to your community midwife.
Further information from trusted sources:
- Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists and Royal College of Midwives information sheet and decision aid
- Gov.uk Covid-19 vaccination: a guide on pregnancy and breastfeeding
- COVID-19 vaccination: a guide on pregnancy and breastfeeding – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- Vaccine Knowledge Project – University of Oxford (flu)
- Public Health England: flu, your pregnancy and you