A MUM-to-be is urging other pregnant women to make sure that they have a free NHS flu vaccination.

Amy Jones, who is seven months pregnant, had the flu jab at her GP practice in Faringdon last month.

The 37-year-old said: "I'm pleased to have had the vaccine to help protect me and my baby. The jab was painless and over very quickly.

"It doesn't matter at what stage of the pregnancy you are at, even if you discover you are pregnant later on in the flu season – have the vaccination."

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She added: "During my two other pregnancies I had the flu vaccination to keep me and the babies well and healthy."

Dr Ed Capo-Bianco, Urgent Care Lead at Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "It's important for pregnant women to have the vaccine as pregnancy weakens the body's immune system and can cause serious complications for the mother and baby.

"The vaccine is safe for both pregnant and breastfeeding women and actually passes some protection on to your baby in the first few months of life.

"I urge all pregnant women to visit their GP practice to have the vaccination when contacted by their surgery."

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Pregnant women in Oxfordshire can get the free flu vaccine at their GP practice, at community pharmacies and most maternity services.

Other at-risk groups entitled to a free flu jab include those aged over 65 and children between two and 10 years old.

For more information visit oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk/your-health/winter-campaign.htm