Breast milk provides protection against many illnesses and it is rarely recommended to discontinue breastfeeding due to illness because of the unique immune protective properties in breastmilk. In limited studies on women with COVID-19 and another corona virus infection, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV), the virus has not been detected in breast milk; however we do not know whether mothers with COVID-19 can transmit the virus via breast milk(CDC, 2020).” What is known is that it is not the typical route of transmission for upper respiratory illnesses. We also know that babies who are not fed breastmilk are more susceptible to URI and GI infections. It is for this reason that the CDC is currently recommending that breastfeeding be continued and that women communicate and work with their care team to determine the best course of action in their particular situation.
You can read more about these recommendations from the CDC here.
If you have additional breastfeeding or lactation questions please reach out to our lactation consultants at 970.680.1019 ext 3951.