18 Aug 2021

A scientific brief from the World Health Organisation (WHO) has shown that breastfeeding does not need to stop due to the COVID-19.

It also states that mothers, with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, should be encouraged to initiate or continue to breastfeed as the benefits substantially outweigh the potential risks for transmission.

In an interview with BOPA recently, MRI Botswana’s Dr Abel Moumakwa stated that breastfeeding offered an infant numerous benefits as well as being the best source of nutrition and protecting them from infections, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr Moumakwa further explained that current scientific research did not show evidence of transmission of the COVID-19 virus from a mother to her infant through breastfeeding; cautioning however that preventative measures had to be followed to protect the baby.

He stressed that precautionary measures such as washing of one’s hands meticulously with soap and water or sanitising before and after contact with the baby as well as routinely cleaning and disinfecting all frequently touched surfaces, remained critical for breastfeeding women at all times.

He also explained that if a breastfeeding woman had flu-like symptoms or was COVID-19 positive, it was mandatory that a face mask be worn at all times.

“Moreover, if you are ill from COVID-19 and cannot breastfeed, express breastmilk to safely provide for your baby,” Dr Moumakwa said.

He further emphasised that a COVID-19 positive mother should be supported to hold her newborn baby, skin to skin, as well as share a room with her baby as close contact and exclusive breastfeeding helped a baby to flourish. BOPA