• Pregnant women urged to protect themselves and their babies this winter
• Vaccines available for flu, whooping cough and RSV
• All three vaccines available through Royal Bolton Hospital’s antenatal clinics

Pregnant women across Bolton are being encouraged to protect themselves and their babies this winter by getting vaccinated against influenza (flu), pertussis (whooping cough), and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus).

The maternity department at Royal Bolton Hospital is now offering all three vaccines to eligible women, with convenient access through the hospital’s antenatal clinic.

Vaccine schedule:

• Flu vaccine – available any time during pregnancy
• Pertussis vaccine – available from 16 weeks
• RSV vaccine – available from 28 weeks

Women who are 28 weeks pregnant or more can receive all three vaccines at the same time.

Appointments for RSV and pertussis will be automatically booked and sent the details by text. They can also receive their flu jab without an appointment during clinic hours.

The clinics are being held at Royal Bolton Hospital in the Antenatal Clinic, every Wednesday to Friday, 9am–3.30pm.

Women who are later in pregnancy and have already received RSV and pertussis vaccines are welcome to drop in for their flu jab during these times.

Mel Wildman, Assistant Director of Midwifery at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:

Protecting mums and babies from serious illness this winter starts with this simple yet vital step.

“We’re making it easier than ever for pregnant women to get vaccinated, offering flexible appointments and automatic bookings.

“These vaccines are the best way to keep you and your baby healthy and well. Please do come forward as soon as possible – our midwives and nurses are on hand to answer any questions you may have.

For more information, visit www.boltonft.nhs.uk/services/maternity, or contact the department on 01204 487680.