Following the 2009/10 influenza A/H1N1 pandemic, it was recognised that pregnant women were disproportionately represented in cases of hospitalisation and complications of the infection. This, coupled with evidence showing a strong link between influenza infection in pregnancy and increased risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, premature birth, and maternal morbidity and mortality, led to the introduction of pregnant women as an ‘at risk’ group who, in 2010, were recommended to receive annual seasonal influenza immunisation. This article discusses the role of the midwife in promoting vaccination and administering it where commissioned and able to do so, or signposting pregnant patients to their GP or local pharmacy to receive it, thereby protecting the health of the women and babies.

Laura Smeaton - Screening and immunisation coordinator, Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership

David Green - Nurse consultant, Public Health England