Pregnant women in Gravesham, Dartford and Swanley are more at risk of contracting flu virus than anywhere else in Kent, according to government agency figures.

Data released by Public Health England has revealed that three in four mums-to-be in the regions have not had the vaccine, despite GPs offering it for free to those at high risk.

Those expecting are at increased risk of experiencing the more serious side effects of the virus. Pregnancy naturally weakens the immune system and as a result, increases the risk of both mother and baby becoming seriously ill, according to health professionals at Kent County Council (KCC).

Kent also has one of the lowest uptakes of the flu jab than anywhere else in the UK, with just 34% of pregnant women recorded as having had it. This has sparked a county-wide campaign to get those at risk vaccinated.

KCC interim director for public health, Andrew Scott-Clark, said: “It’s difficult to know why the take-up among pregnant women is so low in Kent – and in particular in Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley – but we believe it could simply be a lack of awareness about the benefits of the jab and there are clearly myths which we need to try and dispel.

“A massive national publicity campaign is under way and locally we are also working with our partner agencies and service providers to make sure that all of the key groups are aware of their eligibility for the free vaccine.

“In the case of pregnant women, we are working closely with midwifery units and doctors surgeries to raise awareness and we urge all of those who are eligible for the jab to contact their GP.”

The county council is trying to bust the myth that giving the injection to pregnant women is dangerous. A KCC statement has tried to assure people that the vaccine can be given safely at any stage of pregnancy, and that it reduces the risk of serious complications such as pneumonia, premature birth, or even miscarriage.

It added that it also protects the baby during the first few months of its life as immunity continues after the baby is born.

Expectant mother Helen Buttivant said: “If you balance the adverse effects of the jab with the potential impact on my baby if I get the flu, it’s a no-brainer. For my own health, as well as that of my baby, I want a smooth pregnancy and the benefits far outweigh any perceived risks.

“I’ve also got lots of young and elderly relatives so I would like to take out the risk of me passing it on.”

For more information on the free vaccine, contact your GP or visit www.kent.gov.uk/health