Do COVID vaccine antibodies pass through breast milk?

COVID Vaccine Antibodies and Breast Milk: A Promising Connection
As the world continues to navigate the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most heartening discoveries has emerged from research into the effects of vaccination on breastfeeding mothers. Studies have shown that mothers who receive COVID-19 vaccinations can pass antibodies to their infants through breast milk, providing a potential layer of protection for newborns during a critical period of their immune development.
The Science Behind Antibody Transfer
Research indicates that after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, particularly the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, mothers exhibit a significant increase in specific antibodies in their breast milk. For instance, one study highlighted a 100-fold increase in immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies after the second vaccine dose, which plays a crucial role in mucosal immunity and can help protect infants from infections. This finding is particularly encouraging as it suggests that vaccinated mothers can offer their babies a form of passive immunity, which is vital in the early months of life when infants are most vulnerable.
Moreover, the presence of these antibodies in breast milk has been corroborated by multiple studies, reinforcing the notion that breastfeeding can serve as a conduit for maternal immunity. According to researchers, this transfer of antibodies does not alter the fundamental nature of breast milk, which is already rich in nutrients and protective factors.
Implications for Infant Health
The implications of these findings are profound. Not only do they provide reassurance to mothers who are vaccinated, but they also highlight the potential for breast milk to serve as a protective measure against COVID-19 for infants. Bridget Young, a co-author of one study, emphasized that breast milk from vaccinated mothers contains specific and active antibodies against the virus, which is excellent news for both maternal and infant health.
Additionally, the research suggests that mothers who have recovered from COVID-19 also pass antibodies through breast milk, further enhancing the protective benefits for their babies. This dual pathway of immunity—through vaccination and natural infection—underscores the importance of maternal health in safeguarding infant well-being.
Conclusion
As the body of evidence grows, it becomes increasingly clear that COVID-19 vaccinations not only protect mothers but also extend their benefits to their breastfeeding infants. This connection between maternal vaccination and antibody transfer through breast milk represents a significant advancement in our understanding of maternal-infant health during the pandemic. As researchers continue to explore this vital area, the findings offer hope and reassurance to families navigating the challenges posed by COVID-19.

How long are antibodies in breast milk?

Maternal antibodies and immunoglobulins are retained by most children up to around six months of age, during which transplacental IgGs decrease, and the infant’s immune system starts developing with the assistance of primarily IgA from breast milk [33,35].

Do babies have immunity to COVID?

Newborns have immature immune systems. Early in life, they depend on antibodies transferred from their mothers during pregnancy for protection from infections, including COVID-19.

What antibodies are passed from mother to baby?

This elicits immunoglobin G (IgG) antibodies, which are passed through the placenta from the parental bloodstream and are secreted into the colostrum and milk that are transferred to the infant via breastfeeding. Maternal antibodies help protect the infant at birth and over the next few months.

Can antibodies be transferred through breast milk?

Human milk also contains anti-idiotypic antibodies capable of enhancing infant antibody response. Maternal milk antibodies coat infant mucosal surfaces and some have a clear protective role. This has been studied extensively in infectious disease models such as rotavirus, E. coli, poliovirus, and retroviruses.

Is the COVID vaccine safe for babies?

Yes. According to the data released by Moderna, Pfizer and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective for children. The CDC notes that getting a COVID-19 vaccine is a safer, more reliable way to build protection than getting sick with COVID-19.

What is passed through breast milk?

Almost any drug that’s present in the blood will transfer into breast milk to some extent. Most medications do so at low levels and pose no real risk to most infants. There are exceptions, though. Some drugs can be found in high levels in breast milk.

Is it safe to get the COVID vaccine while breastfeeding?

Everyone ages 6 months and older is recommended to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine, including if you are pregnant, breastfeeding a baby, trying to get pregnant now, or might become pregnant in the future. COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy is safe and effective.

Are there antibodies in breast milk from COVID booster?

Numerous studies have shown the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in human milk after two doses of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines [10–21]. Specifically, IgA and IgG against the spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 have been found in human milk after both vaccination and infection [7].

Do COVID vaccine antibodies transfer to babies?

Vaccinated mothers pass covid antibodies to babies in utero and through breastmilk, early studies show. Pregnant women who receive a coronavirus vaccine may transfer antibodies to their fetuses through umbilical cord blood and to their newborns through breastmilk, early research shows.

Does the COVID vaccine pass to the fetus?

Pregnant persons that receive a COVID-19 vaccine can pass protective antibodies to their baby through transplacental transfer.