Vaccines in pregnancy: whooping cough, flu, RSV and Covid-19

Several vaccines are offered in pregnancy, and they work in different ways. Here’s what you’ll be offered, when, and why.

Whooping cough

The NHS says the whooping cough vaccine is usually offered when you’re around 20 weeks pregnant, often alongside your 20-week scan, and it can be given at any time from 16 to 32 weeks. Having it before 32 weeks gives the best protection. The NHS says that after 32 weeks it will not protect your baby as well.

Whooping cough can be life-threatening for babies. Some of your protection is passed on to your baby until they can have their first 6-in-1 dose at 8 weeks. The NHS says it is around 90% effective at protecting babies from becoming seriously ill before their first vaccinations, and that studies have shown it is very safe in pregnancy, with no known risks to you or your baby. Side effects are mostly mild and don’t last more than a few days: pain, swelling or redness in your arm, headache, tiredness, feeling achy or a mild stomach upset.

RSV

RSV is a common virus that can cause serious chest infections in young babies. The NHS says the RSV vaccine is offered from 28 weeks of pregnancy, around your 28-week appointment, and is recommended in every pregnancy. The earlier you have it from 28 weeks the better, but it can still be given later, up to labour. The antibodies you pass on protect your baby for their first 6 months. Side effects are usually mild and short-lived, such as pain or swelling where the injection went in, headache or aches.

Flu

The NHS says pregnant people qualify for a free flu vaccine and can have it at any stage of pregnancy. It’s offered every autumn or winter, and the NHS advises getting it as early as possible. Check the NHS flu vaccine page for this season’s last date. Dates can differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It helps protect you and your baby, lowers the risk of serious complications in pregnancy, and protects your baby in their first few months. The NHS says it’s safe to have at any stage of pregnancy.

Covid-19

Pregnancy on its own is not currently a reason to be offered the NHS Covid-19 vaccine in the 2026 to 2027 programmes. If you have a weakened immune system you may be eligible, and the vaccine is considered safe in pregnancy. Check the NHS Covid-19 vaccine page or ask your midwife or GP. See the Covid vaccine during pregnancy.

Can I have them together?

The NHS says the RSV vaccine can be given alongside the whooping cough and flu vaccines, but it advises getting each one as soon as it’s offered rather than waiting to combine them.

Who shouldn’t have the RSV vaccine, and other cautions

The NHS says anyone who has had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or an ingredient shouldn’t have the RSV vaccine, and that if you have a high temperature you should wait until you feel better. Tommy’s says live vaccines are generally avoided in pregnancy and the chickenpox vaccine isn’t given. Anyone who has had a serious allergic reaction to a vaccine or one of its ingredients should tell the person vaccinating them. Tell the person vaccinating you that you’re pregnant, and talk to your midwife if you have any concerns.

How to get them

Your midwife or GP surgery will tell you where to go, and many are offered at your antenatal appointments. If you haven’t been offered one that’s due, ask. Arrangements vary between the UK nations.

Questions people ask

Are these vaccines safe for my baby?

The NHS says studies show the whooping cough vaccine is very safe in pregnancy with no known risks, and that the flu vaccine is safe at any stage. Tommy’s says there are no safety concerns about the RSV vaccine for pregnant people or their babies.

What if I miss the whooping cough window?

The NHS says it can be given from 16 to 32 weeks, with the best protection before 32 weeks. Ask your midwife about your options.

Can I have the flu vaccine in the first trimester?

Yes. The NHS says you can have a flu vaccine during any stage of pregnancy.

Is it safe to breastfeed after the flu vaccine?

Yes. The NHS says it’s safe to breastfeed after having the vaccine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.