On March 23, 2020, the National Nutrition Cluster issued guidelines for Local Government Unit’s (LGU) nutrition action relative to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It has 19 recommendations to all LGUs, non-government organizations and other civic-oriented organizations on the provision of nutrition services to all COVID-19 affected populace. Part of these guidelines is the continued promotion, protection and support of Exclusive Breastfeeding for 0-6 months old infants. In accordance to Executive Order No. 51 or the Milk Code, National Nutrition Cluster reminds the LGUs that breastmilk substitutes such as powdered milk, infant milk formula and other milk products; feeding bottles, teats, commercial baby food donations are permitted and should not be included in the distribution of emergency food packs.
Exclusive breastfeeding is one of the essential actions for infant’s development and survival. The mother’s breastmilk is the sole source of nutrition of 0-6 months old infant because it contains all the nutrients and antibodies needed to support the development and immune system of the baby. When an infant is exclusively breastfed, no other liquids (even water) or solids should be given to the first 6 months of the infant’s life aside from breastmilk with the exception of oral rehydration solutions of vitamins, minerals and medicines. In line with this, mothers should observe the proper nutrition during the first 1,000 days of the baby’s life which includes consuming healthy foods and observing healthy lifestyle during the stage of the mother’s pregnancy and lactation. Subsequently, to meet the increasing nutritional requirements of above 6 months old infants, mothers should give nutritionally adequate and safe complementary food while continuing breastfeeding for up to 2 years or beyond to achieve the optimal growth, development and health.
During the time of disasters and pandemic, most LGUs and other organizations hand over their supports to the community through giving goods as assistance for daily survival. However, even during this outbreak of COVID-19, proper nutrition should not be neglected especially for the infants that are still on the stage of growth and development. It should not be forgotten that the continued promotion of breastfeeding must still be highly prioritized so that achieving the optimum heath and nutrition will not be hindered.
Always remember the Kumainment no. 2 of 10 Kumainments: Sa unang 6 months ni baby, breastfeeding lamang; mula 6 months, bigyan din siya ng ibang angkop na pagkain!
NO I Angelica O. Pajulas
