According to Dr Marc Van Ranst, appointed 'influenza commissioner' to monitor the evolution of the new flu virus in Belgium, vaccination is necessary for pregnant women.

Two weeks ago a pregnant woman died in Belgium as a consequence of having contracted the A H1N1 flu virus.

Two other pregnant women are in critical condition from the flu. Their babies were delivered but they both have brain damage.

"Pregnant women are not more prone to getting the flu than other women, but when they get the flu the consequences are must worse," explains Dr Van Ranst.

"If artificial respiration has to be applied to a pregnant woman it means they have a lack of oxygen. In combination with a forced delivery the baby can suffer brain damage (due to the shortage of oxygen). This happened twice last week," said a grim-faced influenza commissioner.

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