The importance of breastfeeding is elevated in emergencies. Our maternity hospitals were flooded with breastmilk substitutes brought in by humanitarian aid agencies. This nearly destroyed our breastfeeding programmes.
Infant feeding is part of the big picture.
It is important for people to make informed decisions on programme responses and to understand the implications of each choice. It highlights the importance of protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding in emergency situations. Complementary feeding issues are not covered here. The present brochure was prepared to raise awareness about, and encourage an appropriate response to, infant feeding in emergencies. It highlights the importance of protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding in emergency situations.