With the global pandemic of Covid-19, several baby food marketers have tried to overrule the government’s efforts in promoting exclusive breastfeeding. As a result, these marketers have compelled several mothers that covid-19 can be transmitted to their newborns through breastfeeding. But every mother should need to know that this statement is far from being the truth.
Not a single case of Covid-19 mother is reported of transferring her infection to her newborn. Moreover, according to global and national guidelines, Covid-19 vaccines are also safe for nursing or pregnant women.
WHO Guidelines: Breastfeeding during Covid-19 Infection
According to WHO Guidelines, if a mother becomes a confirmed case of Covid-19, she should not abstain from breastfeeding her newborn. Those guidelines clearly state that no research has shown the presence of viral content in breast milk. Therefore, there is no chance of transmission of Covid-19 during breastfeeding. However, the nursing mother should take general precautions of Covid-19 such as wearing masks, washing hands, and maintaining good hygiene.
NCOC Pakistan: Covid-19 Vaccine, Safe or Not?
National Command Operation Center Pakistan directed in its instructions of Covid-19 vaccines that both pregnant and lactating mothers are safe to get Covid-19 vaccines.
As early breastfeeding provides the newborn with maternal immunity, thus it will help the newborn fight better with infections than a child who is not breastfed. Apart from that, the mother should avoid coughing or sneezing during breastfeeding to restrict other modes of transmission.