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BREASTFEEDING AND THE FLU
Breast milk provides protections against many respiratory diseases, including influenza (flu). A mother with suspected or confirmed flu should take all possible precautions to avoid spreading the virus to her infant while continuing to provide breast milk to her infant.
Can the flu be transmitted through breast milk?
Flu is not spread to infants through breast milk. The flu is spread mainly from person-to-person via respiratory droplets when people cough, sneeze, or talk, or possibly, when a person touches a surface or object that has the flu virus on it and then touches their own mouth or nose.
Should I stop breastfeeding if I think I've been exposed to the flu?
As long as you're not ill, keep breastfeeding. Your milk provides disease-fighting antibodies that help build your baby's immune system. But if you start to develop flu symptoms, take extra precautions to protect your baby. The safest option is to pump your milk and have someone else bottle-feed it to your baby.
Are there other ways I can protect my baby if I get the flu?
While you're sick with the flu, you'll want to limit contact with your baby. In addition to having someone else bottle-feed your baby pumped breast milk or formula, if possible, try to limit your baby's exposure to your germs in other ways. For example:
- Wash your breasts thoroughly with mild soap and warm water before feedings.
- Put a clean, dry cloth blanket between you and your baby every time you hold or feed her.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water before touching or holding your baby. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
- Frequently clean household surfaces, such as the kitchen counter, sinks, light switches, and doorknobs.
- Wear a face mask. If you can't wear a face mask, sneeze or cough into your elbow or a tissue and throw it away and then wash your hands.
- Don't share eating utensils, drinking glasses, washcloths, towels, beds, pillows, or blankets until you've been symptom-free for at least five days.
Can I take medicine for the flu if I'm breastfeeding?
It's okay to take antiviral drugs prescribed by your doctor while breastfeeding.
How can I protect myself and my baby from the flu?
Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your baby from the flu. The CDC and AAP recommend that nearly everyone – including pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers – get an annual vaccine shot as soon as they become available each fall. Your baby can't be vaccinated until she's at least 6 months old. But if you and the other adults who are often in close contact with your baby get a flu shot, she'll have a better chance of staying healthy.
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