Breastfeeding And Corona Virus The Advisory

Panic and anxiety has been on the high during this unusual situation worldwide, with the pandemic of Coronavirus (Covid-19) looming on us.

As of now, young parents with newborns and infants are feeling vulnerable, especially with all the information given to them on how to manage illness while breastfeeding or caring for a newborn. Here is a guide for young families in the current situation of global crisis...

WHAT IS CORONA VIRUS?

According to the World Health organisation Corona viruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several corona viruses are known to cause respiratory infections, ranging from the common cold with mild symptoms to more severe respiratory diseases that may need intensive care.

How contagious is it and how does it transmit?

It is considered to be highly contagious and is transmitted via droplets of sneeze and cough of infected persons. Therefore, frequent washing of hands has been highly recommended.

I am breastfeeding my baby. Should I worry about Covid-19?

Mother’s milk provides immune protection against many different illnesses such as respiratory illnesses like SARS-CoV or Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV). Both these viruses were a form of Coronaviruse.

How does breastfeeding provide immunity to my baby?