Breastfeeding during influenza season
Posted Nov 19, 2009 By Dianne Oickle
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Tweet ThisEMC Lifestyle - Does breastfeeding protect babies from this new flu virus?
There are many ways that breastfeeding and breast milk protect babies' health. Since H1N1 is a new virus, we do not know yet about specific protection against it. Mothers pass on protective antibodies to their baby during breastfeeding. Antibodies are a type of protein made by the immune system in the body. Antibodies help fight off infection. Influenza can be very serious in young babies. Babies who are not breastfed get sick from infections like influenza more often and more severely than babies who are breastfed.
Should breastfeeding mothers get immunized with the H1N1 vaccine?
Yes. The H1N1 vaccine is recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Mothers who receive the H1N1 vaccine are less likely to get sick and their babies are less likely to get the illness. The adjuvanted version of the vaccine is recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Check with your primary health care provider or the health unit about availability of vaccine.
Should I stop breastfeeding my baby if I think I have come in contact with the flu?
No. Because mothers make antibodies to fight diseases they come in contact with, their milk is custom-made to fight the diseases their babies are exposed to as well. This is really important in young babies when their immune system is still developing. Breastfeeding also helps the baby to develop his own ability to fight off diseases.
Is it ok to breastfeed my baby if I am sick?
Yes. This is really important. Do not stop breastfeeding if you are ill. Breastfeeding should start as soon after birth as feasible. This will help protect your baby from infection. If you are too sick to breastfeed, pump your breastmilk and have someone give the expressed milk to your baby. Limit formula feeds as much as possible.
If a woman receives antiviral treatment while nursing, can she continue to breastfeed?
Yes. Because of the anti-infective benefits of human milk for infants and the low dosages of antiviral passed to the baby through breastmilk, it is recommended that women continue to breastfeed their baby when taking antiviral medications. Both Tamiflu (oseltamivir) and Relenza (zanamivir) are considered to be compatible with breastfeeding. Check with your pharmacist before taking any antiviral medication.
If my baby is sick, is it okay to breastfeed?
Yes. One of the best things you can do for your sick baby is keep breastfeeding.
Do not stop breastfeeding if your baby is ill. Give your baby many chances to breastfeed throughout the illness. Babies who are sick need more fluids than when they are well. The fluid babies get from breast milk is better than anything else, even better than water, juice, or electrolyte solutions because it also helps protect your baby's immune system. If your baby is too sick to breastfeed, he or she can drink your milk from a cup, bottle, syringe, or eye-dropper.
What can I do to protect my baby?
Take everyday precautions and practice basic infection control. In addition, take extra care to wash your hands often with soap and not to cough or sneeze in the baby's face while feeding your baby, or any other times you and your baby are close.
Reference: Clinical Guidance for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women with Influenza-like Illness in the context of the Pandemic H1N1 2009 Virus. Public Health Agency of Canada - www.fightflu.ca
For more information, contact the Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit's toll-free Health ACTION Line at 1-800-660-5853 (613-345-5685). Also check our website at www.healthunit.org for information about influenza immunization clinics and preventing the spread of influenza.
Dianne Oickle, is a MSc, RD, Registered Dietitian/Public Health Nutritionist with the Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit.
