Newcastle Hospital launches human milk bank
The department established the human milk banks in order for babies to benefit directly from the ambitious initiative.
Oh baby!
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, in partnership with the University of KwaZulu Natal, is encouraging women to breastfeed exclusively for six months.
“In South Africa, what most children die of are respiratory tract infections, but the underlying reason is malnutrition. Exclusive breastfeeding is the single most important thing you can do for your child,” explained Director of the Integrated Nutrition Programme at the KZN Department of Health, Leonore Spies.
The department established the human milk banks in order for babies to benefit directly from the ambitious initiative.
KwaZulu-Natal spearheaded the campaign, with five banks already up and running – one of which is at Newcastle Provincial Hospital.
In light of this, Minister of Health, Aaron Motsaoledi, recently called for milk banks to be set up throughout South Africa.
In addition, a call has gone out to healthy mothers to donate their breast milk.
The banks are run according to internationally accepted guidelines in order to ensure the safety of vulnerable babies. Potential donors have to undergo a health screening. Once expressed into a sterile jar, the milk is then tested, pasteurised and frozen- ready to be supplied to babies in need.
“Breast milk provides immunity and protection. If babies do get an infection, it won’t be as bad and they will get better quicker,” concluded Ms Spies.
For more information, visit www.madebymom.org.za.
