The spread of coronavirus disease has probably stirred up all kinds of emotions especially if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Nursing mothers may ask questions such as :
• should I stop breastfeeding if I’m exposed to this virus
• If I get symptoms of Covid-19, will breastfeeding put my baby at risk?
Experts are still learning about the virus, and new information is being shared every day. Below are recommendations for breastfeeding and coronavirus and ways to help protect a mother and her baby by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Can COVID-19 spread through breast milk?
COVID-19 has not been detected in breast milk in limited research studies, but no one can tell whether mothers with COVID-19 can spread the virus through breast milk. Scientists believe the virus spreads mainly from person to person, primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
Should I continue to breastfeed during the COVID-19 pandemic ?
Breast milk contains antibodies that help protect babies from many illnesses and it is the best source of nutrition for most infants. The decision to begin or continue breastfeeding is personal for each mother and family. If a mother is exposed to the virus or develops symptoms, she should seek medical attention and see how best they can plan on feeding the baby.
How can I protect my baby from COVID-19 while breastfeeding?
Everyone, including mothers, should take steps to help protect themselves from COVID-19 such as practicing proper hand hygiene, practicing social distancing and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touches surfaces daily.
Breastfeeding mothers should take the following precautions to help keep their babies safe :
• wash hands before touching the baby
• Wear a face mask, if possible while feeding at the breast
Should I pump instead of breastfeeding the baby directly?
Pumping or expressing breast milk is a good alternative to direct breastfeeding when a mother is not feeling well. Mothers who are expressing breast milk should :
• use a dedicated breast pump rather than a shared one
• Wash hands before touching any pump or bottle parts and before expressing breast milk
How else can mothers take care of themselves during the COVID-19 outbreak?
Self-care for mothers is an important part of caring for babies. Mothers are recommended to :
• Eat a nutritious diet
• Get some fresh air with their baby, by walking or sitting outside (while maintaining social distance from others)
• Get enough rest
• Maintain daily routines as much as possible
• Stay hydrated
• Connect with friends and family virtually for support

