5 December 2011
The most senior midwife at the Trust is urging pregnant women to protect themselves and their unborn babies against flu this year, by having the free flu vaccine.
Although for most people flu is an unpleasant but not serious illness, the affects can be devastating for those in 'at risk' groups, including those people with long term conditions, the elderly and pregnant women.
The Trust's Head of Midwifery, Sally Sivas said: "Last year, 1,037 women gave birth at Epsom Hospital and 1,555 women gave birth at St Helier Hospital during the colder months of the year, and indications show a similar number are expected to arrive this winter.
"Winter is a busy time for us, but the cold weather brings a new threat to pregnant women and their children: flu. Flu can have some very serious complications for both mother and baby, and in some rare cases, the high fever caused by flu can result in miscarriage.
"It is vital that pregnant women - whatever their stage of pregnancy - consult their GP and consider having the flu jab. It's just too important to ignore."
Studies have shown that the flu vaccine can be safely and effectively given during any trimester of pregnancy. The vaccine does not carry risks for either the mother or baby. In fact, studies have shown that mothers who have had the vaccine while pregnant pass some protection to their babies, which lasts for the first few months of their lives.
The symptoms of flu:
Symptoms will usually peak after two to three days and you should begin to feel much better within five to eight days. However, you may have a lingering cough and still feel very tired for a further two to three weeks.
Complications, including pneumonia, can occur and although relatively rare in the population generally, are more common in pregnant women.
The flu vaccine only lasts for a year, so if you had a jab last year, you will need another one to stay flu safe. The jab doesn't contain the 'live' virus so it cannot give you the flu.
Simply contact your GP to arrange a convenient appointment and get your jab out of the way. It's quick, simple and free for those in 'at risk' groups.
