News and media releases from the Surrey Heartlands area
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Pregnant women invited to ‘Get the facts on winter vax’ with GP’s new flu vaccine myth-busters
Flu cases are rising earlier than usual this winter across Surrey and NHS health leaders are encouraging pregnant women to get their flu vaccine now to ensure they are protected before winter illness levels increase.
The vaccine takes two weeks to become fully effective, so coming forward early offers the best protection for both mother and baby.
Last year, flu vaccination prevented an estimated 96,000 to 120,200 hospitalisations.
With signs pointing toward a potentially severe season, the NHS has issued a flu SOS warning to help prevent serious illness among those most at risk.
To help expectant mothers feel confident about their decision, Dr Anita Raina, a GP in Horley, Surrey, has recorded a series of short flu vaccine myth-buster videos.
Why the flu jab matters in pregnancy
The flu jab protects your baby too
Safe at every stage: the flu jab in pregnancy
Where to get your flu jab when pregnant
These will be shared across NHS Surrey social media channels and address some of the most common questions she hears from local pregnant women.
Dr Anita Raina said:
I speak with expectant mums regularly, and they want clear, trustworthy advice.
The flu vaccine has an excellent safety record and is one of the most important steps women can take to keep themselves and their babies healthy this winter.
The flu vaccine is free, safe and the best protection we have. I encourage all pregnant women across Surrey to come forward as soon as possible.
Flu vaccines for pregnant women are available at GP surgeries, community pharmacies and in some maternity services.
For answers to common questions, visit the flu vaccination section of the Surrey Heartlands website.