Pregnant women offered bespoke vaccine service

Friday 21 May 2021

Pregnant women are being offered bespoke covid-19 vaccine slots, to give more time to alleviate concerns about their jab.

57% of Guernsey’s population have had at least their first vaccine, and the programme has now moved on to people aged 18 to 29.

As per the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation guidelines, pregnant women will be offered jabs in descending age order, alongside the rest of the population.

Public Health says it is aware that some pregnant women have many questions and concerns about the vaccinations, and any implications for their pregnancy.

“We absolutely understand that pregnant women who are eligible to receive the vaccine are going to have more questions than perhaps other people,” said the Director of Public Health, Dr Nicola Brink.

Pictured: “We would like to encourage people to come forward and ask any questions if they have them,” said Dr Brink.

The bespoke service has been spearheaded by Consultant Midwife, Alex Hawkins-Drew, who joined Dr Brink’s team during the pandemic.

“She’s exceptionally talented and has arranged this bespoke service,” said Dr Brink.

“They can see a midwife who has been specifically trained in covid vaccinations, and they’re given a longer time to discuss the pros and cons of the vaccination.”

Pictured: Pregnant women are only offered the mRNA vaccines Pfizer or Moderna, not AstraZeneca.

Anyone who is pregnant should inform Public Health when contacted for a vaccine.