NHSGGC is making an urgent appeal to pregnant women who have not received their two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to attend specially-organised clinics this weekend.
Over recent months NHSGGC has seen an increase in the number of pregnant women who have ended up in Intensive Care – the vast majority of whom were unvaccinated.
Chief Midwife Evelyn Frame said: “The stark reality is being unvaccinated while pregnant puts both you and your baby at increased risk. Some women who have become seriously unwell have had to have their baby delivered early, which is far from ideal.
“Being pregnant puts a women at increased risk of COVID-19 complications. But this risk can be dramatically reduced by receiving both doses of the vaccine.”
NHSGGC is so concerned about the situation, it has organised three special vaccination clinics this weekend.
- Saturday 27 Nov in the Maternity of the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (Daycare) from 9am-4pm
- Sunday 28 Nov in the Princess Royal Maternity (Daycare) from 9am-4pm
- Sunday 28 Nov in the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley (Antenatal clinic) from 9am-4pm
Evelyn added: “All pregnant woman are invited to attend a drop-in clinic on these days to receive either their first or second dose.
“Women can attend any clinic which suits them – even if it’s not the hospital they are booked into.
“There’s also no pressure. Even if they just want to come along and speak to one of the vaccinators we will be delighted to see them. They will be able to get the updated information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy and chat through any concerns they may have.”
When women attend, they will also be able to have the flu vaccine is they have not received it already.
For more information, please follow this link.
ENDS
Background information
Information from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecology and Royal College of Midwives.
- Studies have shown that hospital admission and severe illness are more common in pregnant women when compared against women who are not pregnant. They are more likely to become unwell with COVID-19 in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, and stillbirth and preterm birth is more likely, (compared to pregnant women without COVID-19). Pregnant women with underlying conditions are at higher risk of severe illness.
- vaccination is effective in preventing COVID-19 infection
- you cannot get COVID-19 from the vaccination
- The Covid-19 vaccine is recommended in pregnancy. Vaccination is the best way to protect against the known risks of Covid-19 in pregnancy for both mothers and babies, including admission of the mother to intensive care and premature birth of the baby.
- Women may wish to discuss the benefits and risks of having the vaccine with their healthcare professional and reach a joint decision based on individual circumstances. Our drop-in clinics will give them the opportunity to speak to a healthcare professional working in maternity services.