Vaccinations During Pregnancy in NHS Grampian

Staying up to date with vaccinations during pregnancy is one of the best ways to protect both you and your baby from serious illness. When you receive certain vaccines while pregnant, your body produces antibodies that pass to your unborn baby, helping to protect them in the first weeks and months after birth.

In NHS Grampian, the following vaccines are recommended during pregnancy.

1. Flu Vaccine

Recommended if you are pregnant during the flu season (September–March). Pregnancy naturally weakens the immune system, which increases the risk of complications from flu, including pneumonia and hospital admission. The flu vaccine is safe at any stage of pregnancy and helps protect you and your baby throughout pregnancy and for several months after birth.

2. Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Vaccine

Offered from 16 weeks of pregnancy, in every pregnancy. Whooping cough can be very serious for young babies, who are at greatest risk before they begin routine immunisations at 8 weeks old. Getting vaccinated in pregnancy allows protective antibodies to pass to your baby, giving them vital early protection.

3. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Vaccine

Offered from 28 weeks of pregnancy. RSV is the most common reason babies in Scotland are admitted to hospital with breathing difficulties. Having the RSV vaccine during pregnancy helps protect your baby against severe illness caused by RSV in their first six months of life. Getting vaccinated as close to 28 weeks as possible provides the best level of protection.

4. COVID19 Vaccine (If Eligible)

You may be offered a COVID19 vaccine during pregnancy if you have a weakened immune system or meet other clinical criteria. Your midwife can advise whether this applies to you

Vaccines Not Recommended During Pregnancy

Some vaccines—such as MMR—are not recommended during pregnancy. If you are missing doses, they can be given after your baby is born. Speak with your midwife if you have any questions about vaccine safety.

Where to Get Your Vaccines

All pregnancy vaccines in NHS Grampian are delivered through your midwife or at your local Vaccination Centres, not GP practices. Your midwife or the NHS Grampian Vaccination Service can help you arrange appointments.

Need More Information?

For full details on pregnancy vaccinations, visit:

· NHS Inform –Vaccines in pregnancy | Ready Steady Baby!