The world will be celebrating breast- feeding week between 1 and 7 August. The theme for this year, adapted for South Africa, is, “Support breastfeeding for a healthier SA”.
The National Department of Health compiled these frequently asked questions in the context of emergencies like Covid-19:
Can Covid-19 be passed through breastfeeding?
•Given the current scientific evidence, the Covid-19 virus has not been found in breastmilk.
It, therefore, seems unlikely that the virus would be transmitted through breastfeeding, or from expressed breastmilk from a mother who has Covid-19.
What if the mother is confirmed, or suspected of having Covid-19?
•Mothers who are suspected of having Covid-19 should still be encouraged and supported to breastfeed.
•If the mother is confirmed to have Covid-19, she should continue to breastfeed.
If she is unable to breastfeed, then she should be encouraged to express breastmilk for the baby and maintain lactation.
What are the hygiene recommendations for a breastfeeding mother confirmed or suspected of having Covid-19, or any other infections respiratory disease that may be transmitted through coughing or sneezing?
If a mother is confirmed or suspected of having Covid-19 or any other infections respiratory disease that may be transmitted through coughing or sneezing, she should:
• Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces.
•Wash hands frequently with soap and running water for 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitiser, especially before touching the baby. Always wash hands before and after breastfeeding your baby.
• Wear a cloth mask or scarf that covers your mouth and nose while feeding.
It is important:
– Not to touch the mask while the baby is breastfeeding or when spending time with your baby.
– Ensure that you do not touch the inner side of the mask.
– After each use, cloth masks should be washed with soap and water and ironed when dry.
– Replace masks as soon as they become damp from breathing.
– Do not touch the front of the mask but untie it from behind.
•Follow good respiratory hygiene: cough or sneeze into your bent elbow covering your mouth and nose, or into a tissue which you must immediately dispose of in a closed container and rewash your hands with soap for 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand rub. Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces within your home.
Is it necessary for a mother with confirmed or suspected Covid-19 or any other respiratory infections to wash her breast before she breastfeeds or expresses milk?
•It is not necessary to wash the breast before every breastfeed or before expressing milk.
•If a mother is confirmed or suspected to have Covid-19 and has just coughed over her exposed breast or chest, gently wash your chest with soap and lukewarm water for at least 20 seconds before feeding. For enquiries or more information on breastfeeding contact your nearest clinic, dietitian at your local hospital or private doctor.
