BARNSLEY'S pregnant women are being encouraged to get free flu jabs this winter.
Health bosses at NHS England South Yorkshire said women eligible for the jab should have received a letter from their GP and should contact the surgery if they have not.
They're offered to people who are at increased risk of catching flu.
Those at increased risk are 11 times more likely to develop serious conditions such as pneumonia and brain infections if they catch flu.
Fiona Jorden, of NHS England South Yorkshire, said: "Regardless of what stage you're at in your pregnancy you can get your free flu jab.
"Pregnant women are more prone to complications from flu that can cause serious illness or complications for both mother and baby.
"Getting vaccinated before the weather turns more wintery will help pregnant women to avoid going out in difficult conditions and will help them stay well throughout the winter.
"The vaccine is safe and effective for both mother and baby. Without it there's an increased risk of your baby/babies being born prematurely or having a low birth weight.
"Having flu while you're pregnant could even lead to stillbirth."
