Here are the latest updates from Best Start on the H1N1 Swine Flu:

Follow these links below to read the current information about breastfeeding and the H1N1 "Swine Flu" . There is much debate going on between all the organizations concerned about the risk vs. benefits of separating mothers and babies if the mom has the flu. Currently the CDC recommends that when possible a healthy person should care for the baby if the mother has the flu, and she should express her milk for the baby. The concern is passing the flu virus on through droplets from the mother's coughing or sneezing. There is no concern about her having body contact with the baby or her milk. When she does breastfeed she should wash her hands and of course control her coughing or sneezing and perhaps wear a mask.

It is agreed by all that the baby absolutely needs to continue to receive his mother's milk because it is the most important thing that can be done to protect him from the flu or reduce the risk of the severe complications of the flu. The concern is that it may be very difficult and tiring for the mom to pump enough milk for the baby, especially while she is ill. Therefore baby may get less milk and mother's milk supply may decrease. It is easier, less tiring, and promotes more milk if mother nurses the baby directly.

This brings us to the point that by the time the mom knows she is sick, she has been contagious for 24 to 48 hours and has already exposed baby and others around her. What then is the benefit of separating Mom and baby at this point? She may not have a full time person to care for the baby.

As you can see, there are issues to consider and no one feels these statements are the perfect answer.

Be sure to read all three statements. Representatives from all organizations admit these statements and guidelines are subject to change as we work our way through this pandemic. Stay tuned to the Best Start website and updates will be posted as they are available.

Jane Bradshaw RN, BSN, IBCLC

Press Release from The International Lactation Consultant Association about Breastfeeding and H1N1:
http://www.ilca.org/files/in_the_news/H1N1/H1N1_PressRelease_200910.pdf
American Academy of Pediatrics:
http://aapnews.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/aapnews.20091012-1v1
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/frequently_asked_questions/what/en/index.html
Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine:
http://www.bfmed.org/Media/Files/Documents/H1N1%20and%20Breastfeeding%20-
%20for%20physicians1.pdf
 

Special H1N1 Swine Flu Newsletter from Best Start Parenting Center

Tips for Parents:
Protecting Your Baby
Against the Flu

from the International Lactation Consultant Association

Influenza (flu) can be very serious, especially in young babies. Luckily, there are many things mothers and other family members can do to help keep babies from getting sick, and to help babies recover more quickly IF they do get sick. This flyer is from the International Lactation Consultant Association for your information. Feel free to copy and share with others.

Click Here to read the official flier from the ILCA.

Many people have concerns about the Swine Flu vaccine. Best Start wants you to have the information you need to make the best decision for yourself and your baby. Here's a link to Mothering Magazine with LOTS of credible links and information for you to read and consider:

http://mothering.com/health/swine-flu

IMPORTANT INFORMATION!!!

It has come to our attention that some health professionals are still not aware that it has been approved by the Center for Disease Control for Breastfeeding Mothers to take the anti-flu medications (Tamiflu and Relenza) and continue to breastfeed. Please DO NOT stop breastfeeding as your baby is much more at risk for severe consequences of the flu if on formula. Be sure and call your pediatrician, as they are the doctors that know the most about what medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers to take. You can refer to the link below to the CDC for more information.

http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/infantfeeding.htm

FROM THE CDC WEBSITE:

"Should I stop breastfeeding my baby if I think I have come in contact with the flu?

No. Because mothers make antibodies to fight diseases they come in contact with, their milk is custom-made to fight the diseases their babies are exposed to as well. This is really important in young babies when their immune system is still developing. It is OK to take medicines to prevent the flu while you are breastfeeding. You should make sure you wash your hands often and take everyday precautions (http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm). However, if you develop symptoms of the flu such as fever, cough, or sore throat, you should ask someone who is not sick to care for your baby. If you become sick, someone who is not sick can give your baby your expressed milk."