From today (1 September 2026) pregnant women are eligible for their free winter flu vaccination.

It’s also a good time for them to get their respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and pertussis (whooping cough) vaccinations, if they haven’t had them already.

Some women may also be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination.

Royal Devon Director of Midwifery Angela Bellamy said: “Getting vaccinated at the right time during pregnancy is vital, as it passes life-saving antibodies to your baby before birth, while also protecting your own health.

“I encourage anyone who pregnant to speak with your midwife about getting vaccinated at your next appointment.”

More about September’s programme

Maternal flu vaccinations

From Monday 1 September pregnant women at any stage of their pregnancy can get the free flu vaccination with one of our immunisation midwives.

In North Devon, clinics are available at a number of locations throughout September and October. See more information under ‘maternal vaccinations 2026’ here: https://www.royaldevon.nhs.uk/our-sites/north-devon-vaccination-centre/.

In East Devon, vaccinations are available in Clinic 1, Centre for Women’s Health, RD&E (Wonford), Monday to Friday, 9am - 4.30pm.

Pregnant women can get their vaccination during their usual appointments, or can drop in during opening hours. We recommend that you call ahead if you do plan to drop in to ensure we have availability on the day.

You can also get your RSV and whooping cough vaccinations at these clinics.

If you have any questions about the flu vaccination, or any of the other vaccinations we provide, please talk to your midwife.

Flu vaccinations for 2-3-year olds

Parents and carers of children aged two and three are also being urged to get their flu vaccine this September. Children aged two and three (on 31 August 2026) are eligible for a free flu vaccination in the form of a nasal spray.

National Booking system now open

The National Booking System (NBS) opened to the public on 17 August.

You can also book an appointment for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations (if eligible) at your local pharmacy, on the NHS website, NHS App or by calling 119 or directly with your GP if preferred.