MOTHERS-to-be in Worcestershire are being urged to make sure they have had their flu jab this winter.

NHS England has issued the reminder after revealing 36 pregnant women in the country have died of flu over the past three years.

Pregnant women are one of the groups eligible for a free vaccination as they are at increased risk of complications from flu.

The disease can also affect the unborn baby, in some cases leading to low weight, premature birth or stillbirth but the mother being vaccinated can protect the child in their first few weeks of life.

Public health consultant for NHS England in Worcestershire Dr Ash Banerjee said he was concerned only 39 per cent of pregnant women in the UK had taken up the vaccination so far this winter.

“Research shows that the jab is safe for mother and baby and can be given at any stage of pregnancy,” he said.

“The earlier you have the vaccine the better as it means you will be protected for the whole winter.

“The flu is more than having a bunged up nose and feeling under the weather. It’s an illness that can take you out of action for weeks, which is the last thing that anyone needs in the run up to Christmas.”

Other groups eligible for the free vaccination are those aged 65 and older, children aged between two and four and those with long-term health conditions such as breathing conditions, liver disease or diabetes.

People in care homes and carers are also eligible for the vaccination.

To book a flu vaccine speak to your GP.