Flu season can feel worrying when you are pregnant, especially if you are trying to protect both yourself and your baby. Yet many people are still unsure about when to get the flu vaccine or how important timing really is. Recent UK data shows that only 62.1 per cent of pregnant women received the flu jab during the 2024 to 2025 season, meaning a large number entered winter without full protection.
With flu spreading more easily at this time of year, knowing the best moment to get vaccinated can help you stay well and give your baby a stronger start.
When is the best time to get the flu vaccine during pregnancy?
The flu vaccine can be safely given at any stage of pregnancy, but the best time is as soon as the seasonal vaccine becomes available. This is usually in early autumn, before flu viruses start to spread widely. By getting your flu vaccine early, you build protection before peak infection levels.
Why early vaccination is essential
Getting the flu jab at the start of the season gives your immune system enough time to develop strong protection. It also helps shield your baby during the first few months after birth, when flu can cause more serious complications.
Can you still get vaccinated later in the season?
Yes. If you missed the start of the vaccination period, you can still receive the flu vaccination in Fulmer or other local areas throughout autumn and winter. It is always better to have it late than not at all.
Does timing affect your baby’s immunity?
Your body passes antibodies to your baby during pregnancy. Getting the flu vaccine at any time helps, but earlier vaccination means a longer window of protection for both of you.
Do you need the flu vaccine during pregnancy?
Many pregnant people ask, “Do I need the flu vaccine during pregnancy?” The simple answer is yes. Pregnancy naturally affects how your immune system works. This makes you more likely to experience complications from the flu, such as chest infections or dehydration.
Why flu poses a higher risk in pregnancy
Changes in your body, including lung capacity and immune response, make it harder to fight off infections. This increases the chance of severe flu symptoms.
What protection the vaccine offers
The flu vaccine reduces your risk of catching the virus and helps prevent serious illness if you do get infected. It also protects your newborn in the early months, when they are too young to be vaccinated themselves.
How it supports safer pregnancies
By staying well, you reduce the risk of complications that can affect your pregnancy, including high fever and reduced movement due to illness.
What are the benefits of a flu vaccine during pregnancy?
The benefits of a flu vaccine extend beyond preventing seasonal illness. It supports your health throughout the pregnancy and safeguards your baby.
Protection for you
Flu symptoms can be more intense during pregnancy. The vaccine helps prevent severe illness that may lead to hospital care.
Protection for your baby
Your baby receives antibodies from you, offering protection in the first few months after birth.
Convenience and safety
The flu vaccine has been used safely for many years. It is non-live, meaning it cannot cause flu. You can discuss your concerns with our pharmacists during your visit.
What are the side effects of the flu vaccine during pregnancy?
Most people experience only mild and short-lasting side effects after a flu vaccine during pregnancy.
Common side effects of the flu vaccine
Many people notice mild arm soreness, tiredness, or a low-grade temperature. These settle within a day or two.
Less common reactions to the flu vaccine
Some may experience mild muscle aches or headaches. Serious reactions to the flu jab while pregnant are very rare.
When to speak to a pharmacist
If symptoms last longer than expected or feel unusual for you, our pharmacists can guide you on what to do next.
Where can you get a flu vaccination if you live near Fulmer?
If you have been searching for flu vaccination in Fulmer or browsing nearby options, it can sometimes be unclear where to go or which service is the most convenient. At Aroga Pharmacy, our pharmacists will guide you through a short consultation, answer any questions about the flu vaccine during pregnancy, and make sure you feel completely comfortable throughout your appointment.
The vaccination itself only takes a few moments, and the environment is calm, supportive and tailored to your needs at any stage of pregnancy.
If you live in or near Fulmer, book an appointment at Aroga Pharmacy in Farnham Common today. Our friendly team is here to help you stay healthy throughout your pregnancy.
FAQs
1. When can I have the flu vaccine during pregnancy?
You can have the flu vaccine at any stage of pregnancy — first trimester, second, or right up until you give birth.
2. If I’m already pregnant in the winter, is it too late to get the flu jab while pregnant?
No. Even if you become pregnant later in the flu season, you can still have a flu vaccination. It remains beneficial and offers protection for you and your baby.
3. Do I really need the flu vaccine during pregnancy, or can I skip it?
Yes. Pregnancy makes your immune system more vulnerable, increasing the risk of serious complications from flu. The vaccine helps protect both you and your unborn baby, reducing risks such as premature birth, low birthweight, or severe illness.
4. Can the flu vaccine cause flu or harm my baby? What are the side effects of the flu vaccine during pregnancy?
No. The flu vaccine used in pregnancy is inactive (non-live), so it cannot cause flu. Some people experience mild side effects such as a sore arm, slight tiredness or a low-grade temperature for a day or two. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare.
5. If I had the flu vaccine last year, do I need it again this year while pregnant?
Yes. The flu viruses change every year, so having last year’s jab does not guarantee protection for this season. It is recommended to get the flu vaccine again each flu season, even if you were vaccinated previously.
6. Will the flu vaccine given during pregnancy protect my baby after they are born?
Yes. When you have a flu vaccine during pregnancy, your body passes protective antibodies to your baby. This can help shield them against flu in their first few months, before they are old enough to get vaccinated themselves.