No evidence of Covid-19 transmission through breastfeeding
There is unanimous agreement across international health organisations that moms can have complete peace of mind breastfeeding their children through the pandemic
MOTHERS have been encouraged to continue breastfeeding their babies as there is no evidence of Covid-19 transmission through breast milk.
Andiswa Ngqaka, a registered dietician and spokesperson of the Association for Dietetics in South Africa (ADSA), said while some may see infant formula as a ‘safer alternative’ during this time, breast milk remains the safest and most nutritious food for babies.
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‘We’ve had an overload of fake news over the past few months. One of the most damaging falsehoods to emerge has been that Covid-19 positive moms can transmit the virus through breast milk to their little ones.
‘There is unanimous agreement across international health organisations that moms can have complete peace of mind breastfeeding their children through the pandemic, even if they are Covid-19 positive or suspect they might be infected,’ said Ngqaka.
What precautions should a Covid-19 positive mom take?
The World Health Organization provides the following breastfeeding guidelines if you suspect or know you have the virus:
* Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use alcohol-based hand rub especially before touching the baby.
* Wear a medical mask during any contact with the baby, including while feeding.
* Sneeze or cough into a tissue. Then dispose of it immediately and wash hands for at least 20 seconds again.
* Routinely clean and disinfect surfaces that you have touched.
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