Vital pregnant women with asthma are immunised

The Asthma Foundation

News release

For immediate use

22 March, 2010

Vital that pregnant women with asthma are immunised

Women with asthma who are pregnant have a much greater risk than other groups of severe complications from influenza and are strongly recommended to discuss immunisation with their GP or midwife.

Responding to a study published in the British Medical Journal last week, the Asthma Foundation’s Medical Director Dr Bob Hancox says:  “this new study underlines the increased risk of influenza complications among pregnant women.”

“Pregnant women are at increased risk of getting very sick if they have not been immunised. This risk will be even greater if they have other conditions such as asthma.”

A seasonal influenza vaccination that also covers swine flu is available through medical centres and is free for pregnant women and people with long-term respiratory conditions.

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