Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Breastfeeding
Right now the news is filled with articles about the novel COVID-19 virus, and as the virus spreads to countries outside of China it is understandable that people are concerned. Here in the United States the cases of the virus are limited, and so far the it has been contained. There is growing concern that this virus will at some point in the near future become more widespread, and people are being asked to prepare for the disruptions to daily life that may become necessary to limit the spread of this disease as much as possible.
The question has been raised about how the COVID-19 Coronavirus impacts breastfeeding, and if a breastfeeding mother contracts this illness is she safe to continue breastfeeding her baby. While there is limited information about this emerging threat, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued a statement about exactly this question.
In the event that Coronavirus spreads to the area you are living in, and you contract this illness, you should continue breastfeeding your child. If at all possible have another healthy adult care for your baby aside from breastfeeding so that you can rest and recover, and use a mask and good hand hygiene when touching your baby. Breast milk is the best preventative medicine to keep your baby healthy, the antibodies in breast milk provide a protective boost to your baby's immature immune system. There is currently no evidence that this virus spreads through breast milk. If you are using a breast pump you should pay close attention to handling your pump kit in a hygienic manner.
A common occurrence during a maternal illness is a drop in milk supply. This occurs typically due to a combination of dehydration, reduced calorie intake and the stress of the illness on the body. It can also be common for there to be a reduction in the frequency of nursing or pumping sessions as focus shifts to recovery, and you may sleep through typical milk removal times. It is important for breastfeeding moms to try to stay hydrated and to make keeping up with frequent milk removals a priority to maintain the milk supply.
Stay healthy mamas and keep up with breastfeeding. Keep tabs on the information disseminated by the CDC to stay prepared at www.cdc.gov
