Protecting mums from the flu this winter

Women having their babies at St John of God Subiaco Hospital are being protected from the flu this winter, with free influenza vaccinations being offered by the hospital as part of its comprehensive maternity care.

23 May 2019

23 May 2019

St John of God Subiaco Hospital Obstetrician Dr Melissa O’Neill said protecting pregnant women against the flu was essential to the health of both the mother and their unborn child.

“We encourage all of our maternity patients to have the vaccine and are pleased to be able to offer this complimentary and convenient service,” she said.

“Patients under the care of one of the hospital’s obstetricians can have the vaccination at one of their regular consults rather than booking an additional appointment with their GP.”

St John of God Subiaco Hospital Chief Executive Officer Professor Shirley Bowen said the initiative reflected their commitment to providing high quality care and services to patients.

“The birth of a child is such a special time and we want to make sure expecting mums have the best possible pregnancy and hospital experience,” she said.

“More than 800 of our expecting mums were vaccinated through this service last year and we anticipate the number will increase this year, especially given the shortage of the vaccine in 2018. We always have enough of the vaccine to ensure all of our maternity patients can access it.”

St John of God Subiaco Hospital also has a comprehensive Influenza Vaccination Program for all caregivers and doctors. The program helps to look after the health and wellbeing of the hospital’s community including patients, visitors and the workforce.