WOMEN who are pregnant in North Cumbria are being urged to get their Covid vaccine and flu jab this winter.

Midwives and healthcare professionals at the NHS have said that they could face serious complications should they contract the virus.

It is said that women displaying Covid symptoms may experience negative impacts on their baby.

Amanda Kennett, Associate Director of Midwifery for North Cumbria Integrated Care, said: "Our main aim is to keep the women and babies we care for safe, the evidence shows that having the COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to keep both women and babies protected against COVID-19."

Complications could include a premature birth or an emergency caesarean.

The advice is also suggested for women planning for pregnancy, breastfeeding women and those in the immediate postnatal period.

Ottilie Fry is currently 36 weeks pregnant and explains why she decided to have her COVID-19 vaccines. Ottilie said: "I was really unsure what to do regarding the vaccine in the beginning, but after doing some reading around the subject and talking to my midwife, I decided to go ahead and have the vaccine.

"I already have a small child who attends nursery and so I decided my risk of exposure to COVID-19 was great enough to take steps to protect myself and my unborn baby from the virus."

Pregnant women are also more susceptible to the flu so getting the jab is your best protection.

Any pregnant women who have questions or concerns about the vaccine can speak to their GP, midwife or obstetrician.