Is breastfeeding recommended during the COVID-19 pandemic? A common question of breastfeeding moms or about to be breastfeeding moms. Is it safe to breastfeed during the COVID-19 outbreak? A typical question asked by nursing or soon-to-be-breastfeeding mothers. It is the cornerstone of infant and young child survival, nutrition and development, and maternal health. Concerns on the safety of breastfeeding during the pandemic have been raised.
World Health Organization (WHO), Center for Disease and Prevention (CDC), and Department of Health (DOH) recommend that mothers with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should be encouraged to initiate or continue to breastfeed. Women with COVID-19 can breastfeed.
Here is a quick reminder of what they should do:
- Wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand rub frequently.
- Wear a medical mask during any contact with the baby.
- Routinely clean and disinfect surfaces touched.
Mothers with symptoms of COVID-19 are advised to wear a medical mask, but even if this is not possible, breastfeeding should be continued. Babies should be fed nothing but breast milk for their first 6 months, after which they should continue breastfeeding and eating other nutritious and safe foods until 2 years of age or beyond. Breast milk saves children’s lives as it provides antibodies that give babies a healthy boost and protects them against many childhood illnesses.
Breastfeeding is good for babies and moms. It protects them from many infections. Hormones released in the mother’s body during breastfeeding promote wellness and can relieve stress and anxiety.
The National Nutrition Council - Region VI joined in the observance of Breastfeeding Awareness Month with the theme: "Tulong-tulong sa Pagpapasuso sa First 1,000 Days"
References:
https://www.unicef.org/eap/breastfeeding-during-covid-19
https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/maternal-or-infant-illnesses/covid-19-and-breastfeeding.html
https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/breastfeeding-and-covid-19
