Local healthcare experts at NHS Surrey Downs Clinical Commissioning Group are encouraging pregnant women to protect themselves and their unborn babies this winter by having the free flu vaccination.

According to data from Public Health England, only 26.9 per cent of pregnant women in Surrey Downs (which includes Mole Valley, Epsom and Ewell, East Elmbridge, Dorking, Banstead and surrounding areas) have received the vaccination from 1 September to 31 October.

So we’re reaching out to those mums-to-be who haven’t yet received the vaccine to take advantage and have it free from their GP or community pharmacist.

Dr Claire Fuller, Clinical Chair at Surrey Downs Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “As a GP, I’m aware of the impact the flu virus can have and how important the vaccination is in treating the most common form of the virus. We know there are many mums-to-be who haven’t yet been immunised and locally we have work to do."

“However, we’re also aware of the myths surrounding the vaccination that might deter people from taking a step towards protecting themselves. The flu vaccine is not a live vaccine, therefore cannot give you flu, however it takes two weeks from receiving the vaccine for it to be fully protective. There isn’t a risk to your baby by having the flu vaccination so if you’ve not taken advantage of your offer to have it, I’d encourage you to do so.”

The vaccine is still available from GP practices and community pharmacies across the area – so if anyone is concerned they may have missed their opportunity to be immunised, don’t worry, you still have a chance. And it’s a good way to help you stay well this winter.

This year’s national flu vaccination awareness campaign, fronted by Public Health England and the NHS, has included TV and radio advertising, promotion on social media and producing leaflets and materials for GP practices.

Based on information supplied by Michelle Baillie.