BREASTFEEDING AND COVID-19
Breastmilk is a primary source of nutrition for babies. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life and strongly encourages to continue breastfeeding along with complimentary solids until age two. The recent SARS-CoV-2
pandemic has many new and expecting moms voicing concerns about what is safe practices when delivering and nursing their newborn. The WHO and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have both released guidance that encourages moms to continue breastfeeding their newborn regardless of a positive SARS-CoV-2 result, with safety precautions in place of course. Here are a few FAQs about COVID-19 and breastfeeding:
If a mother is suspected to have a case of SARS-CoV-2 should she continue to breastfeed?
A mother with a suspected case of SARS-CoV-2 should initiate/continue to breastfeed her baby, as the benefits of breastmilk outweigh the risks associated. Studies have not found evidence of SARS-CoV-2 transmission through breastmilk, however, we do know that COVID-19 can be easily transmitted by respiratory droplets. The benefits of breastmilk include protection against infections and studies have shown that infants are less likely to show severe respiratory symptoms from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A mother should continue to breastfeed her baby with precautions in place including washing her hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water before picking the baby up, and wearing a double face mask.
If a mother tests positive in the hospital should she be separated from the baby?
The first few hours after birth are a critical time for a newborn; their entire world has been flipped upside down and they are now in a completely new place with new temperatures, new noises, and learning new skills. After a baby is delivered, they need to begin to learn how to do things on their own such as breathing and eating. The hour after birth, known as the “golden hour” is a time for skin-to-skin and when breastfeeding is initiated between mom and baby for the first time. For many mothers, this time is a critical part of their breastfeeding journey. The AAP does not recommend separating a mother who wishes to breastfeed from her newborn baby. Hospital staff should use proper PPE at all times and the mother should wear a double mask and practice frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
What safety precautions should a mother take if she believes she has SARS-CoV-2?
If a mother has tested positive for COVID-19 or begins showing symptoms, she should wear a double face mask and wash her hands with soap and water for 20 seconds prior to holding her baby. Newborns and small children under the age of 2 should never wear face masks. Mom should keep a safe distance from her baby at all times when it is possible.
Can a mother infected with SARS-CoV-2 transmit the virus through her breastmilk?
At this time there is no scientific evidence that COVID-19 is spread through human milk. It is known however, that COVID-19 can spread very easily through respiratory droplets so if a mother or someone in the immediate household becomes infected it is important to practice all safety precautions.
For more information on SARS-CoV-2 and breastfeeding:
https://www.aappublications.org/news/2020/04/23/covid19breastfeeding042320
https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/breastfeeding-and-covid-19