Released on: 11 October 2021
In response to new data from NHS England which shows that nearly 20% of the most critically ill Covid patients are pregnant women who have not been vaccinated, Sarah McMullen, Director of Impact and Engagement, NCT, said:
‘In July, The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Royal College of Midwives described Covid-19 unlocking as creating the ‘perfect storm’ for pregnant women. The news that unvaccinated pregnant women now make up nearly 20% of England’s most critically ill Covid patients is a damning indictment of the lack of attention given to this vulnerable group as restrictions have eased.
‘It is absolutely understandable that pregnant women have questions and hesitations about vaccinations. The risks of Covid during pregnancy make it as important as ever that women have access to reliable information and support so that they can make an informed decision about the vaccine. We’ve been extremely disappointed to hear of so much misinformation and confusion about the vaccination programme and so little focus on what’s needed to keep vulnerable groups safe as restrictions have eased. We strongly encourage pregnant women to consider having the Covid-19 vaccination and have information to help them make a decision.
‘We continue to urge health professionals to read and follow the RCOG and RCM guidance and make every contact count to support informed decision-making. We also call on the Government to ensure a dedicated focus on the continued risks to pregnant women as a vulnerable group.’
