Can illness be passed through breast milk?

Can Illness Be Passed Through Breast Milk?
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits, both for infants and mothers. However, a critical question arises: can illnesses be transmitted through breast milk? The answer is nuanced, as certain infections can indeed be passed from mother to child via breast milk, while others are not typically transmitted in this way.
Infections Transmissible Through Breast Milk
Research indicates that there are specific infections for which breastfeeding serves as a significant transmission route. Notably, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human T-cell lymphotropic virus types I and II (HTLV-I and HTLV-II), and cytomegalovirus (CMV) are among the primary pathogens that can be transmitted through breast milk. For instance, studies have shown that infants born to mothers with active CMV infections can contract the virus through breastfeeding, particularly if the mother has high levels of the virus in her milk.
In the case of HIV, the risk of transmission through breastfeeding is well-documented, leading to guidelines that recommend HIV-positive mothers either avoid breastfeeding or take antiretroviral therapy to reduce viral load. Similarly, HTLV-I and HTLV-II can also be transmitted through breast milk, although the overall risk is considered low compared to other routes of transmission.
Other Considerations
While the transmission of these specific viruses is a concern, it is essential to note that the vast majority of infections do not pass through breast milk. For example, common illnesses like the flu or colds are not transmitted this way. Instead, breastfeeding often provides protective antibodies that can help bolster an infant’s immune system against various infections.
Moreover, some conditions, such as mastitis, can complicate breastfeeding. Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that can lead to the presence of bacteria in breast milk. While this can pose a risk, the overall likelihood of serious illness from such transmission is relatively low.
Consultation and Precautions
For mothers with known infections or health concerns, it is crucial to consult healthcare providers. They can offer personalized advice based on the mother’s medical history and the specific risks associated with breastfeeding in her situation. In some cases, breastfeeding may be discouraged, while in others, it may be deemed safe with appropriate precautions.
In summary, while certain infections can indeed be transmitted through breast milk, the overall risk is limited to specific viruses. The benefits of breastfeeding, including the transfer of antibodies and nutrients, often outweigh the risks, making it a vital component of infant health when managed appropriately.

Are breastfed babies less likely to get RSV?

Infants receiving (exclusive or partial) maternal milk had lower risk of RSV bronchiolitis. Partial breastfeeding reduces risk of hospitalisation.

Can breast milk upset baby’s tummy?

Digestive Discomfort: In some cases, babies may experience digestive discomfort or upset stomach if they consume old breast milk. This can be attributed to changes in the milk’s composition or potential bacterial contamination.

Should I stay away from my baby if I’m sick?

Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs. Avoid close contact with your baby if you are sick and encourage friends and family to do the same, especially during cold and flu season.

Can you spread illness through breast milk?

Of course, our top priority as mothers is protecting this new little life, and we would do anything for them. So, here is the good news. Your body has superpowers! Did you know that you cannot pass illnesses such as the cold, flu, fever, diarrhea, vomiting and even COVID through your breast milk?

Can babies be sick on breast milk?

Reflux and breastfeeding. When your baby brings up milk, or is sick during or after feeding, this is known as reflux. Reflux is quite common and babies usually grow out of it by the age of 1.

What illnesses should you not breastfeed with?

The only true contraindications to breastfeeding are the following:

• Infants with classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency)
• Mothers, in the US, who are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), untreated brucellosis, or suspected or confirmed Ebola virus disease.

How can I prevent passing my cold to my baby?

The best defense against the common cold is commonsense precautions and frequent hand-washing.

1. Keep your baby away from anyone who’s sick.
2. Wash your hands before feeding or touching your baby.
3. Clean your baby’s toys and pacifiers often.
4. Teach everyone in the household to cough or sneeze into a tissue.

Why can’t you eat chocolate while breastfeeding?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless.

Can cold virus pass through breast milk?

If you have a cold or flu, fever, diarrhoea and vomiting, or mastitis, keep breastfeeding as normal. Your baby won’t catch the illness through your breast milk – in fact, it will contain antibodies to reduce her risk of getting the same bug. “Not only is it safe, breastfeeding while sick is a good idea.

Will my breastfed baby get sick if I’m sick?

Influenza, or flu, does not spread to infants through breast milk. The transmission rates of other respiratory illness during breastfeeding are low.