Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) is celebrating the first anniversary of its maternity immunisation hubs by reminding expectant mothers across Oxfordshire how vital vaccines are for protecting themselves and their babies this winter.
Since launching in September 2024, the hubs at John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) and Horton General Hospital (Banbury) have delivered more than 6,000 vaccinations to over 3,000 women, making vaccines easier to access during routine pregnancy care.
Why are vaccines important in pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the immune system naturally weakens to support the baby. This makes women more vulnerable to infections such as flu, whooping cough and RSV. Vaccination provides protection not only for the mother but also for the newborn in the first few months of life.
“All vaccines offered are inactive,” explains Amanda Lee, Matron for Maternity Public Health at OUH. “That means they don’t contain live viruses and cannot cause illness in mother or baby. It’s safe, it’s free, and it’s one of the best ways to stay healthy during pregnancy.”
Which vaccines are offered at OUH hubs?
- RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) – available year-round between 28–36 weeks.
- Whooping cough (Pertussis) – available year-round from 16 weeks.
- Flu – available during flu season (September to March).
- COVID-19 – not routinely offered this year, following national Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advice. Some women with weakened immune systems may still be eligible through their GP.
Where can I get vaccinated in Oxfordshire?
No appointment is needed, women can drop in or get vaccinated during routine antenatal visits.
John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford – Level 4 Women’s Centre
- Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm | Sat: 9am–4pm
Horton General Hospital, Banbury – Midwifery-led Unit, Postnatal Corridor
- Mon, Wed & Fri: 9am–5pm
Do I need to book in advance?
No. Both hubs operate drop-in clinics. Midwives and GPs also provide information during antenatal appointments, so women can get their questions answered before deciding.
What do local experts say?
Amanda Lee added:
“We are incredibly proud of the impact our immunisation hubs have had in their first year. Making vaccinations easy and accessible has helped many women protect themselves and their babies from serious illness.”
Find out more
🔗 Visit the NHS website: Vaccinations in Pregnancy
🔗 Speak to your midwife or GP for personalised advice.
At a glance: OUH Maternity Vaccination Hubs
- John Radcliffe Hospital – Oxford, Level 4 Women’s Centre
- Horton General Hospital – Banbury, Midwifery-led Unit
- Vaccines offered: RSV, Whooping Cough, Flu (COVID-19 if clinically eligible)
- Drop-in clinics – no appointment needed
