London, Nov 18 A survey of 107 GPs in the UK has found that the public is avoiding the swine flu vaccine, with only 46 percent patients, including pregnant women and those with chronic ailments like asthma, accepting it.

Pregnant women are particularly averse to the administration of the vaccine.

Some say they are worried about its side effects, while others avoid the jab by saying the virus is mild in most affected people.

Even after the Government handed out leaflets and made online information available to persuade pregnant women to take the vaccine, doctors say the public's response has been lukewarm.

"In all the pregnant women we've offered it to, I think only about one in 20 has agreed," The Independent quoted Dr Chris Udenze, a GP in Nottingham, as telling Pulse mag.

Dr Andy Rose, a GP in Kensington, west London, said his practise was facing "considerable scepticism" from pregnant women.

A Department of Health spokesman reiterated the necessity of the vaccine for risk groups. (ANI)