September saw the highest-ever maternity vaccine uptake at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM). 

The Maternity Vaccination Service, which has been running for two years, delivered 377 whooping cough vaccines, 291 respiratory syncytial virus (RSV vaccines) and 927 flu vaccines making it UHNM's best month on record. 

Melanie Manners, maternity lead vaccinator said: "The numbers are absolutely amazing. 

"For whooping cough and RSV, uptake has been steadily increasing since the service launched two years ago thanks to ongoing health promotion and education with both staff and patients. 

"This time last year, it took us three and a half months to reach the flu vaccine figures we achieved in September alone. 

"This is because of the team's dedication and the growing awareness among mums-to-be of how important vaccination is for them and their babies."

A team of seven nurse maternity vaccinators provide vaccinations across four sites at the Royal Stoke University Hospital's Antenatal Clinic, County Hospital's Women's Health Centre in Stafford, and community clinics at Bradwell Community Hospital and Bentilee Health Centre. 

Melanie added: "These vaccines provide vital protection for both mother and baby. 

For whooping cough and RSV, antibodies are passed through the placenta, giving babies protection in their first few months of life when they are most vulnerable. 

"The flu vaccine helps protect mothers from serious illness, and associated complications including pneumonia, premature birth and low birth weight. 

"As we move into winter, we're encouraging all mums-to-be to have their vaccines. It's the best way to protect both themselves and their babies against these potentially serious infections. 

"Anyone with questions can speak to their midwife or the maternity vaccination team, we're always happy to provide advice and reassurance." 

Kerry-ann Johnson, 37, from Packmoor, was one of the mums-to-be who recently received her flu and RSV vaccines at the Royal Stoke's Antenatal Clinic. 

Kerry-ann said: "I've done a lot of research on the vaccines and had them in previous pregnancies. 

"I feel having the vaccinations is important to boost my immune system for when my baby is born. 

"The staff have been lovely, I couldn't feel more supported."