Health and wellbeing
Pregnant women in Walsall urged to get vaccines ahead of winter
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As winter approaches, pregnant women in Walsall are being urged to get vaccinated against flu, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and whooping cough (pertussis) to protect them and their unborn babies.
Flu is a viral infection that can cause fever, aches and pains, headaches and extreme tiredness. Pregnant women have a higher chance of developing serious complications of flu, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy, including pneumonia and even death. The flu vaccination is strongly recommended for pregnant women each year and can be given at any stage in pregnancy.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to serious lung infections like bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants and older adults. Women who are 28 weeks pregnant or more are eligible for the RSV vaccine to help protect their newborns from severe illness.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is an infection of the lungs and breathing tubes. It can be life-threatening for babies and children, and anyone who is between 16 and 32 weeks pregnant is strongly recommended to get vaccinated against it.
To promote conversations about vaccinations in pregnancy, the ‘Flu Fairies’ initiative is continuing at the antenatal clinic at Walsall Manor Hospital, which saw over 1,000 women participate last winter. Focusing on conversations about RSV, flu and whooping cough, flu fairies encourage pregnant women and their families to learn about the benefits of vaccination, ask questions and make a fairy to photograph in the diorama and take home.
Sessions began in September this year, with the first one seeing over 70 pregnant women and their families. Information about vaccinations in pregnancy was also shared in multiple languages, helping ensure that women and families where English is an additional language could access clear, accurate and culturally sensitive guidance. Sessions will continue this month until February 2026.
“ Vaccines are vital during pregnancy to protect both mum and baby. Illnesses like flu, RSV and whooping cough can be serious and lead to complications if you are pregnant. It is important to be vaccinated every time you are pregnant. Vaccination is safe during pregnancy and reduces the risk of you or your baby becoming unwell. It’s quick, safe and free. To find out more about vaccinations or if you have any questions, speak to your GP or midwife. “
The fairies will land at the antenatal clinics over the coming months. Pregnant women can contact the Antenatal Clinic at Walsall Manor Hospital on 01922 656577 to find out more about getting the vaccines.
To learn more about vaccinations in pregnancy, visit the NHS website: Vaccinations in pregnancy - NHS (www.nhs.uk).
