Bassetlaw: Pregnant women urged to get free flu jab

Notts County Council is encouraging all pregnant women to protect themselves and their unborn child by taking advantage of their free seasonal flu vaccination.

Last year saw 36.1 per cent of pregnant women in Bassetlaw getting their jab, compared to 19 per cent in 2011/12.

Chris Kenny, director of Public Health Nottinghamshire County and Nottingham City is urging all pregnant mothers to consider getting the vaccination this year.

He said: “Flu is highly contagious, and can cause serious complications for expectant mothers or their unborn babies, so it’s really important if you’re pregnant to get your seasonal flu vaccination – and to do it now so that you’re protected before the flu season starts in earnest. You can contact your GP or practice nurse to get your free flu jab.”

As well as pregnant mothers, children aged two and three are now also being offered a free seasonal flu vaccination for the first time to protect them against the disease and help reduce spread amongst children.