Pregnancy is a time of preparation — for you and your baby. One of the most important ways to protect your baby before birth is through vaccinations during pregnancy. These vaccines safeguard both you and your baby, not just during pregnancy but in the critical first weeks after birth when newborns are most vulnerable.
Why vaccinations in pregnancy matter
Getting vaccinated during pregnancy doesn’t just protect you. It also passes antibodies to your baby, helping them fight off serious illnesses before they are old enough to receive their own vaccines. Vaccinations during pregnancy are safe, NHS-recommended, and protect against:
Flu vaccination during pregnancy
Flu can be more severe during pregnancy and may lead to complications for both mother and baby. The flu vaccine in pregnancy is safe at any stage and provides protection throughout the winter months. It reduces the risk of serious illness and helps protect your baby in the first few months of life.
How to get it: Free flu vaccination from your GP or local pharmacy from 1 September 2025.
RSV vaccination during pregnancy
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is common but can be serious for babies under six months old. By having the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, you pass on protection to your baby — giving their Super Body a head start before birth.
- Book through your maternity team, GP, or select local pharmacies.
- Offered between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy.
- Reduces the risk of bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Whooping cough (pertussis) vaccination during pregnancy
Whooping cough is highly contagious and can be life-threatening for newborns. Vaccination during pregnancy (ideally from 16 weeks) ensures your baby is born with protection until they are old enough for their own vaccines.
- Discuss with your maternity team to schedule the vaccination.
Maternity vaccination drop-in clinics
As well as seeing your GP or community pharmacy, you can get your maternity vaccinations from our maternity immunisation team, who offer vaccines to women and people over 16 weeks pregnant in Basildon, Broomfield, and Southend. Drop-in clinics run at the maternity departments of these hospitals:
- Basildon Hospital: Mondays and Fridays, 9:15am – 4:30pm in the antenatal clinic near the entrance.
- Broomfield Hospital: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:15am – 4:30pm, Zone A, 4th floor, by the maternity ward entrance.
- Southend Hospital: Tuesdays and Fridays, 9:15am – 4:30pm, second floor (Cardigan building) next to the lifts.
Vaccines available: RSV, seasonal flu, and pertussis (whooping cough).
No appointment is necessary; simply visit during the hours listed. For questions, contact the maternity department directly.
We understand that vaccinations during pregnancy can feel worrying. Visit a drop-in clinic if you have concerns – our healthcare teams can answer your questions and explain why these vaccinations are recommended.
Your midwife or GP can help
If you’re unsure which vaccines you need or when to have them, speak to your midwife or GP. They will explain the recommended vaccinations and ensure you and your baby get the right protection at the right time.
Vaccinations during pregnancy are free, safe, and one of the most effective ways to protect your baby before birth.
Protect yourself. Protect your baby. Give them the strongest start.
Patient story
Protect yourself. Protect your baby. Give them the strongest start.