99%+ of pregnant women admitted to hospital with Covid-19 have not been vaccinated, scientists say.
The Delta variant of coronavirus posing a significantly greater risk of severe disease.
Researchers at Oxford University are saying this is “concerning”, and one in 10 pregnant women admitted with symptoms of Coronavirus often require intensive care.
In a study by medRxiv, the scientists said “vaccinations are able to offer effective protection from the risk of becoming severely ill from Covid-19, with far fewer numbers from vaccinated groups in hospital compared with those who have not had the jab.”
Jacqueline Dunkley-Bent chief midwife for England has written a letter to midwives, obstetricians and GP practices. “all healthcare professionals have a responsibility to proactively encourage pregnant women” to get vaccinated.”
“Vaccines save lives, and this is another stark reminder that the Covid-19 jab can keep you, your baby and your loved ones safe and out of the hospital.”
Dr Edward Morris, president of the RCOG, said: “Every day our members are seeing very sick pregnant women with Covid-19 in hospital and the majority are unvaccinated.
“We want to reassure pregnant women that Covid-19 vaccines are the safest and best way to protect you and your baby from severe illness and premature birth.”
Professor of maternal and child population health Marian Knight said: “It is extremely good news that so few vaccinated pregnant women have been admitted to hospital with Covid-19.
“However, it is very concerning that admissions of pregnant women to the hospital with Covid-19 are increasing and that pregnant women appear to be more severely affected by the Delta variant of the disease.
“Around 200 pregnant women were admitted to hospital with Covid-19 last week.
“I cannot emphasise more strongly how important it is for pregnant women to get vaccinated in order to protect both them and their baby.”