NSW Health is advising pregnant women to receive the free influenza vaccination, after research showed that only 22 per cent are getting the jab.
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Research conducted by MotherSafe - a state-wide, free counselling service for pregnant women and healthcare providers based at the Royal Hospital for Women – has found that many expectant mums are still not being vaccinated against the flu.
Of the 320 pregnant women surveyed, only 42 per cent recalled their doctor advising them to receive the flu vaccine.
Of this group, only half went on to get the shot.
“The research confirms that people often have fears about exposure during pregnancy,” said Dr Debra Kennedy, Director of MotherSafe.
She said many people mistakenly believe that the flu vaccine will make them sick “(and)…people’s fears aren’t always easy to undo.”
“When prompted, doctors said they advised women to have the vaccine but it seems that many may not be remembering to do this regularly.’’
The flu vaccine is safe at any time during pregnancy. It also offers immunity to the newborn baby for six months after birth.
Pregnant women are at high risk of severe consequences of influenza infection. While flu during pregnancy does not cause birth defects, it can cause serious outcomes.
“The mum can get very sick and could end up in hospital with very severe respiratory disease,” Dr Kennedy said.
“You could have a very sick mother and a baby born prematurely, which can have its own risks.”
The vaccination is free as part of the Federal Government’s Immunise Australia Program. Dr Kennedy said GPs needed to ensure they recommended the flu vaccination to pregnant patients.
She also advised those planning pregnancy, to be prepared.
“Ideally if they’re likely to be pregnant in the winter, have a flu shot,” she said.
“Make sure that they’ve planned as well as they can.”
MotherSafe can be contacted on 1800 647 848 (from non-metropolitan areas).