24/10/2006

Pregnant women to get flu jab

Pregnant women are to be given free flu jabs from next year that could protect their unborn child from leukaemia.

More than 200,000 women due to give birth next winter will receive the flu jab if it is approved by the Department of Health.

Britain's leading flu expert, Professor John Oxford told the Daily Mail: "This is a huge initiative. Pregnant women are one of the most important sectors of society. They are carrying the youngsters of the future."

According to scientists if the mother is exposed to flu when pregnant the risk of leukaemia is more than doubled to the unborn baby.

The Government has the final say on whether the programme is approved.

(CD)

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