1. Breast milk protects newborn and infants as it provides them with nutrients and strengths their immunity by transferring antibodies directly from their mothers through milk. Helps in development of the child.
2. If you are suspected or confirmed with COVID-19 and you are a breast feeding mother, you may continue feeding your baby with proper precautions.
3. The ill-effects of not breasfeeding your baby is worse than COVID infection itself. Stopping breastmilk deprives the baby of the vital nutrients necessary for growth which may in turn have long term effects.
4. Hygiene practices include: wearing a mask when near your child, Routine cleaning of surfaces you touch, washing hands with soap and water before and after touching your baby.
5. If you are unable to breastfeed your baby, you may express your milk and feed your baby.
6. If you are severely ill and not able to express milk you may try ‘Wet nursing’ i.e breast feeding your child by another mother who is healthy and plan to restart breast feeding after a gap.
7. Do not try breast milk substitutes, pacifiers, teats or bottle milk for your baby as there is no substitute for breast milk.
8. Seek professional help and advice when needed. Do not get convinced by novice advises from friends or family.
9. For pregnant moms (COVID positive) about to deliver, initiate breast feeding within one hour after birth. And follow proper hygiene practices.
10. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended upto 6 months and continue breast feeding until 2 years of age with other foods.
Source: @who
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