PREGNANT woman around York are being urged to protect themselves and their baby against flu.

Expectant mothers are being offered the flu jab for free, and Lucy Botting, Chief Nurse at NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “I urge pregnant women to consider the option of being vaccinated and if they have any concerns to talk to their GP, practice nurse or midwife.

“The flu jab is available free of charge on the NHS to eligible groups. Pregnant women and other eligible patients should contact their GP practice to make an appointment to get the jab.”

Pregnant women are at high risk of suffering the ill effects of flu, as the immune system is naturally suppressed during pregnancy.

Other groups offered the vaccine are people aged 65 and over, people with a long term health condition such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease, carers, two to four year olds, and those living in nursing or residential homes, as well as front line health and social care workers.