DOCTORS and midwives are urging pregnant women in West Devon to protect themselves and their unborn child from flu by getting the free flu jab this winter.

They say that now is the time to have the flu vaccination - either from a GP, maternity service provider or pharmacy - before the flu virus starts circulating.

Lorna Collingwood -Burke, chief nurse for both Devon Clinical Commissioning Groups, said: ‘It is important that all pregnant women protect themselves and their unborn baby by having the vaccination. Flu is a serious risk to both the mother and unborn baby.

Pregnant women have an increased risk of developing complications from flu.

‘The vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy and is safe for mother and baby. So if you are pregnant and haven’t yet had your vaccine, please speak with your GP, maternity service provider or local pharmacy as soon as possible. The vaccine is free and will offer protection to you and your baby.

‘Flu is a highly infectious disease. It is caused by viruses that are spread from person to person. The viruses are constantly changing and that is one of the main reasons why pregnant women should be vaccinated annually.

‘The symptoms, that come on very quickly, include fever, chills, headaches, aches and pains in the joints and muscles, and extreme tiredness. The best way to avoid getting the flu is by having the vaccination. Doing so reduces the risk of developing the illness significantly.

‘Strains of the flu virus change every year, and for that reason it’s important to have the vaccine every year.

‘Even if someone thinks they’ve already had the flu they should still have the vaccine. There is more than one type of flu virus, and it is important to reduce the risk as much as possible.’