Hastings Prince Edward Public Health continues to encourage those who are pregnant to keep themselves and their baby safe by getting vaccinated against COVID-19.
The health unit says there is emerging evidence showing that pregnant individuals are at an increased risk of complications related to the virus.
Pregnant women who contract COVID-19 are more likely to suffer from severe illness.
They are five times more likely to be hospitalized and 10 times more likely to be admitted to the ICU while also more likely to require ventilation/life support breathing.
They also spend longer in hospital.
Dr. Ethan Toumishey, Acting Medical Officer of Health at HPEPH adds that studies on pregnant women who have received an mRNA vaccine find no evidence to suggest it is unsafe to do so.
Women who are breastfeeding are also advised to get fully vaccinated as soon as possible.
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine while breastfeeding is safe, effective and highly recommended and antibodies transmitted through breastmilk could protect the baby.
Individuals who are planning to conceive are also encouraged to get vaccinated in order to reduce the risk of serious illness during pregnancy.
People looking for more information can go to www.hpepublichealth.ca or call the health unit at 613-966-5500 or 1-800-267-2803, ext. 223 to speak to a public health nurse.
