It’s important to take breastfeeding precautions when you have the flu. As a breastfeeding mother, you must take steps to protect your baby from contracting the virus and any potential complications. Here are some of our top breastfeeding precautions when you have the flu.
Protect Your Baby from the Flu
The flu (short for influenza) is a contagious respiratory tract illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Flu can cause mild to severe symptoms and sometimes lead to death. Pregnant women and their infants are at high risk of developing flu-related complications. For best protection, get a flu shot as soon as it becomes available.
Benefits of Continued Breastfeeding
Breast milk protects against many respiratory diseases, including the flu. Because a baby’s immune system is still developing, they rely on their mothers for protection in the form of antibodies passed through breast milk. A mother with suspected or confirmed flu should take all possible precautions to avoid spreading the virus to her infant while continuing to breastfeed.
Breastfeeding Precautions When You Have the Flu
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before feeding your baby. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Limit close contact between your baby and other non-essential people.
- Avoid taking your baby into crowds.
- Wear a mask when caring for your baby.
- Wash your hands anytime you sneeze or cough or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to maintain your milk supply.
- Consult your doctor about taking any medication.
Disinfect Common Household Items
Certainly, you want to avoid contact with garbage cans and other obvious gross stuff, but don’t overlook disinfecting these germs havens:
- Toothbrush holders
- Plastic toys and stuffed animals
- Touch screens and headphones
- Purses
- TV remotes
- Desks
Precautions For Caregivers
If a mother becomes too ill to breastfeed, she should be encouraged to pump milk for her baby, which a caregiver or other household member can feed.
Preventing illness for the baby is the preferred outcome, so anyone who has contact with the baby should observe these precautions:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before feeding the baby. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Wear a mask if you suspect you are sick.
- Wash your hands or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer anytime you sneeze or cough.
The bugs that come with winter weather don’t have to interrupt breastfeeding. Mother’s milk is still the best way to protect your baby.
Supporting You and Your Family’s Health
At Creekside Center for Women, our physicians understand the importance of breastfeeding for you and your baby. We are here to provide comprehensive support, guidance, and advice on breastfeeding during the flu season. Don’t hesitate to book an appointment to discuss breastfeeding precautions or questions. We are here to support you and your family’s health! 479.582.9268