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Whooping cough (Pertussis) vaccine
What it protects against: Pertussis – a bacterial infection that causes violent coughing, pneumonia, brain damage, and even death in young babies. The vaccine offered is combined with diphtheria and tetanus (e.g., ADACEL or Boostrix IPV).
Why it’s important:
- Babies don’t receive their first pertussis jab until 8 weeks old.
- Maternal immunisation passes protective antibodies through the placenta, reducing infant infection risk by up to 90% until baby can be vaccinated.
- Outbreaks are rising sharply – 4,793 cases in England early 2024 vs. 858 in 2023, with eight infant deaths – highlighting the urgency.
When to get it:
- Can be given any time from 16 weeks.
- Ideally between 16 – 32 weeks to maximise antibody transfer, but still beneficial later.
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Seasonal flu (influenza) vaccine
What it protects against: Seasonal influenza virus. The inactivated vaccine contains no live virus.
Why it’s important:
- Pregnant women are at increased risk of serious flu complications like pneumonia and hospitalisation.
- Around 18,000 flu-related deaths in England over two winters highlight how critical vaccination is.
When to get it:
- During flu season – typically from September through March in the UK.
- Available at any stage of pregnancy – earlier is better to allow full effectiveness (~2 weeks).
- If your pregnancy spans two winter seasons, you may need two jabs.
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COVID-19 vaccine
What it protects against: SARS‑CoV‑2 (COVID-19). Inactivated or mRNA vaccines.
Why it’s important:
- Pregnant women, especially late in pregnancy, face higher risks of severe illness.
When to get it:
- The NHS indicates it’s offered “during COVID‑19 season” as needed.
- However, post-spring 2025, Tommy’s notes the vaccine will no longer be offered during pregnancy due to lower current risk.
- If you’re pregnant during a COVID‑19 campaign, vaccination is still advised.
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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine
What it protects against: RSV – a common winter virus that can cause bronchiolitis or pneumonia in newborns.
Why it’s important:
- RSV hospitalises around 20,000 infants annually in England.
- Maternal immunisation passes antibodies to newborns, reducing severe RSV by up to ~70%.
When to get it:
- Offered from 28 weeks, ideally between 28–36 weeks for optimal antibody transfer – can be given later if needed.
Other vaccines (case-by-case)
- Tetanus and Diphtheria boosters: Safe during pregnancy as part of combined vaccines, though routine childhood coverage makes them uncommon.
- Travel vaccines: Live vaccines such as MMR or yellow fever are usually not given during pregnancy due to theoretical foetal risks. Discuss travel plans with your midwife.
Summary table: Vaccine timing and purpose
| Vaccine | Protection | Best Timing |
| Whooping cough (Pertussis) | Newborn pertussis | 16–32 weeks (from 16 weeks onward) |
| Influenza (Flu) | Seasonal flu | During flu season – ideally early autumn |
| COVID‑19 | COVID-19 (current outbreaks) | If campaign active; previously offered |
| RSV | Infant RSV infection | From 28 weeks (ideally 28–36 weeks) |
Risks and mitigation
- Immune changes in pregnancy mean women are less able to fight infections.
- Maternal antibodies cross the placenta to protect babies for several weeks or months after birth, bridging the gap until newborns get vaccinated.
- Rising cases of pertussis and RSV, and ongoing flu-related deaths, make vaccination central to safeguarding both maternal and infant health.
How to arrange your vaccinations
- At routine appointments:
- GP practices and maternity clinics routinely offer whooping cough, flu, and RSV during antenatal visits. Often available alongside scans or check-ups.
- By request:
- If you’re past ideal timing and haven’t been offered a jab, contact your midwife or GP to book an appointment.
- Pharmacies:
- Many pharmacies deliver flu and COVID‑19 jabs to pregnant women. You can self-refer during winter campaigns.
- Vaccination clinics:
- Some hospitals run dedicated maternity immunisation days – check with your maternity unit.
- Timing efficiency:
- In winter, aim to receive flu, pertussis, and RSV vaccines together (if you’re far enough along) to minimise visits.
Protect yourself and your baby
Vaccination during pregnancy isn’t just about protecting you – it’s a vital shield for your baby’s early life when they’re most vulnerable. NHS guidance strongly recommends:
- Whooping cough at 16–32 weeks
- Flu during flu season
- RSV after 28 weeks (winter months)
- COVID‑19, if there’s an active campaign
These vaccines are safe, effective, and readily available through your GP, midwife, hospital maternity services, or pharmacies. If you haven’t had them by the recommended times, get in touch, as they continue to offer powerful protection for both mother and baby.
Stay up‑to‑date with NHS guidelines, talk to your midwife, and give your baby the best start possible.
