Vaccination clinics for pregnant

A health board has set up special vaccination clinics for pregnant women as it made an urgent appeal for them to get both doses.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) said there has been increase in recent months in expectant mothers ending up in intensive care, the "vast majority" of whom were unvaccinated.

The board said it is "so concerned" about the situation it has set up three vaccination clinics this weekend for pregnant women.

Chief Midwife Evelyn Frame said: "The stark reality is being unvaccinated while pregnant puts both you and your baby at increased risk.

"Some women who have become seriously unwell have had to have their baby delivered early, which is far from ideal.

"Being pregnant puts women at increased risk of Covid-19 complications. But this risk can be dramatically reduced by receiving both doses of the vaccine.

"All pregnant women are invited to attend a dropin clinic on these days to receive either their first or second dose.

"Women can attend any clinic which suits them even if it's not the hospital they are booked into.

"There's also no pressure. Even if they just want to come along and speak to one of the vaccinators we will be delighted to see them. They will be able to get the updated information regarding the Covid-19 vaccine in pregnancy and chat through any concerns they may have."