Experts claim that though a lot of people are more vulnerable to the coronavirus, people who are age 61 and up, pregnant women, and those who are suffering from underlying health issues like diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and kidney problems should take extra and stronger precautions. Authorities claim people belonging to these groups are more prone to the virus and could even suffer extreme effects.
But, how about those moms who are breastfeeding their little ones. There have been a lot of studies and situations on how diseases and other illnesses can transfer from mother to child through breast milk. Is coronavirus the same as these?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 or the coronavirus, just like with other respiratory illnesses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV) and common colds, is typically transferred from one person to another person through respiratory droplets of those who are infected once they sneeze or coughs. Though SARS's virus can't be transferred through breast milk, authorities are still unable to fathom whether the coronavirus can be passed on from the mother to their infants through it.
"Much is unknown about how COVID-19 is spread", explains CDC. The organization further claims that with the limited information regarding the virus, "we do not know whether mothers with COVID-19 can transmit the virus via breast milk" or not.
As of the writing, CDC still recommends lactating mothers who have flu to feed their young with breast milk but under one condition. They should make sure to follow safety guidelines or precautions to avoid the spread of any virus, may it be coronavirus, SARS, or just a common cold, to her infant.
Mothers who are tested positive with the coronavirus or those who are symptomatic PUI should make sure to always consider proper hygiene first especially when handling their child. Experts say washing their hands before touching their baby is still the best way to protect their kid from the virus. Wearing a face mask and sanitizing the place is also some of the best things to do.
Breast milk is the healthiest beverage a baby can have to protect him from different illnesses and diseases such as Polio, Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Haemophilus influenza. It also has the best vitamins and nutrients he needs for his system to function and develop well, as explained by WebMD. Aside from these reasons, studies also show that babies who were breastfed have a stronger immune system than those who were not.
