Benefits of breastfeeding during COVID19

Does breastfeeding protect my baby?

Breastfeeding saves lives. Research shows that, by increasing breastfeeding rates, we could save the lives of more than 820,000 children worldwide every year. Breast milk provides antibodies that give babies everywhere a healthy boost and protect them against many infections. Antibodies and bio-active factors in breast milk may fight against COVID-19 infection, if baby is exposed. In addition, the corona virus has not been found in breast milk, and transmission via breastfeeding has not been demonstrated.

Breastfeeding is globally recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF and is part of  national recommendations for infant and young child feeding:

• Breast milk provides all the food and water that your baby needs during the first 6 months of life.
• Do not give anything else, not even water, during your baby’s first 6 months.
• Giving your baby anything else (any foods, cow’s milk, juice, tea or even water)  will cause him/her to suckle less and will reduce the amount of breast milk that you produce.  This  may make your baby sick and prevent your baby from growing well.
• You can give medicines to the baby if they are recommended by your health provider.