We know that whooping cough, RSV, flu and COVID-19 can have severe consequences for
newborns who are especially vulnerable in the early stages of life when their immune system
has not fully developed. Babies cannot receive vaccinations until they are 8 weeks old,
because their immune system is developing and are particularly vulnerable to serious
infections in this period. But if you are vaccinated while you’re pregnant then the antibodies
can be passed on to your baby, and this can help sustain them until they can have their
vaccinations themselves.
“Black women have historically faced disparities in healthcare and ensuring that more of us
are vaccinated in pregnancy is one step closer to closing these gaps. By taking up the offer
of vaccinations, we are protecting our babies and reducing our overall community burden of
the disease, also helping our black mothers and children have the best possible start in life.
So, this is a critical reason why I strongly recommend and advocate for vaccinations in the
black community.” – Dr Julie Hammond, London GP.
“We cant predict how every baby or child is going to respond to having one of these
illnesses, so if we know vaccinations can prevent them from needing hospital or intensive
care admission, then its crucial we have them.”- Dr Oge Ilozue, London GP and Clinical
Advisor for the NHS Vaccination Programme
Listen to Yusra’s story and find out more here: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/vaccinations/
To find out more go to nhs.uk/wintervaccinations
