This archive report was first published on 6 August 2020.
On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week, the Ministry of Health has reassured mothers that breastfeeding their babies is safe even if they contract Covid-19.
According to Health CAS Rashid Aman, most newborns who contract the virus do not develop severe symptoms and are likely to be asymptomatic or show mild symptoms.
Speaking at Afya House on Thursday, Dr. Aman emphasized that breast milk is the best source of immunity for infants and is essential for their health, even in the presence of Covid-19.
He advised lactating mothers to continue breastfeeding their infants exclusively for six months, citing research that shows the benefits of breast milk outweigh the potential risks of Covid-19 transmission.
“Transmission of this virus via breast milk is highly unlikely,” Dr. Aman said. “Research has shown that the benefits of breast milk substantially outweigh the potential risks for Covid-19 transmission.”
He also recommended that mothers wash their hands before breastfeeding and wear a facemask to minimize the risk of transmission.
Dr. Aman further noted that transmission of Covid-19 during delivery is uncommon.
