Can listeria be passed through breast milk?

Understanding Listeria and Breast Milk Transmission
Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for listeriosis, poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and newborns. One pressing question among breastfeeding mothers diagnosed with listeriosis is whether this pathogen can be transmitted through breast milk.
Current Research Insights
The scientific community has not reached a definitive conclusion regarding the transmission of Listeria through breast milk. According to recent studies, including one that examined the shedding of Listeria in breast milk from infected mice, the dynamics of this transmission route remain complex and not fully understood. While animal models provide some insights, they do not directly translate to human cases.
A key point highlighted in health resources is that it is currently unclear if Listeria can pass through breast milk. This uncertainty emphasizes the importance of consulting healthcare providers for personalized advice. If a mother is diagnosed with listeriosis while breastfeeding, it is crucial to discuss potential risks and management strategies with a pediatrician.
Clinical Recommendations
Health guidelines suggest that breastfeeding mothers diagnosed with listeriosis should not automatically cease breastfeeding. In fact, some literature indicates that breastfeeding can continue, provided that appropriate antimicrobial treatments are administered to the mother. This approach underscores the potential benefits of breast milk, which contains essential nutrients and antibodies that support infant health.
However, caution is advised. Breastfeeding mothers are encouraged to maintain a balanced diet and avoid high-risk foods that could harbor Listeria, such as unpasteurized dairy products. This preventive measure is vital not only for the mother’s health but also for the safety of the infant.
Conclusion
In summary, while the possibility of Listeria transmission through breast milk remains uncertain, the prevailing guidance is to consult healthcare professionals for tailored advice. The health benefits of breastfeeding are significant, but they must be weighed against the potential risks associated with listeriosis. As research continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive in discussions with healthcare providers is essential for the well-being of both mother and child.

Can a baby get Listeria through breast milk?

Transmission of bacterial pathogens via contaminated breast milk is commonly encountered in veterinary cases of neonatal listeriosis, but currently is not considered a risk for human neonatal listeriosis.

What STDs can be passed through breast milk?

If you have HIV, do not breastfeed. You can pass the virus to your baby. In countries like the United States where clean water is available, using a breastmilk substitute like formula is recommended. If you have chlamydia, gonorrhea, or HPV, you can breastfeed your baby.

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.

What happens to baby if mom gets Listeria?

Listeriosis can also lead to premature labor, the delivery of a low-birth-weight infant, or infant death. Fetuses who have a late infection may develop a wide range of health problems, including intellectual disability, paralysis, seizures, blindness, or impairments of the brain, heart, or kidney.

What are the odds of getting Listeria while pregnant?

Pregnant people and newborns
Every year in the United States, about 1 in 25,000 pregnant people are infected with Listeria. Listeria can spread to your baby during pregnancy cause harm, even if you do not feel very sick.

Should I breastfeed if my mother’s stomach is upset?

“Not only is it safe, breastfeeding while sick is a good idea. Your baby is actually the person least likely to fall ill with your tummy upset or cold, as she has already been in close contact with you and is getting a daily dose of those protective antibodies from your milk,” says Sarah Beeson.

How do I know if my baby is affected by Listeria?

Signs and symptoms of a listeria infection in a newborn can be subtle, but can include: Little interest in feeding. Irritability. Fever.

Can food poisoning be passed through breast milk?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.

What are the symptoms of Listeria?

Mild symptoms may include a fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If the more severe form of listeriosis develops, symptoms may include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.

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.