Do viruses pass through breast milk?

Do Viruses Pass Through Breast Milk?
The transmission of viruses through breast milk is a complex and nuanced topic that has garnered significant attention in both medical research and public health discussions. While breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous benefits, including nutritional and immunological advantages for infants, certain viral infections can indeed be transmitted from mother to child through breast milk.
Key Viruses of Concern
Research indicates that specific viruses are known to be transmitted via breast milk, with cytomegalovirus (CMV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) being the most notable examples. CMV is particularly common, and while it can be transmitted through breast milk, it typically does not pose a significant risk to infants due to the protective antibodies transferred from the mother during pregnancy. In contrast, HIV poses a more serious risk; breastfeeding can increase the likelihood of transmission to the infant, which is why guidelines often recommend that HIV-positive mothers avoid breastfeeding if safe alternatives are available.
Other viruses, such as human T-lymphotropic virus I (HTLV-I), also have established pathways for transmission through breast milk. However, the incidence of clinically significant infections from these viruses is relatively low compared to the overall benefits of breastfeeding.
Emerging Concerns and Research
The landscape of viral transmission through breast milk is continually evolving, especially in light of recent global health crises. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, studies suggested that the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, is not likely transmitted through breast milk. Instead, breastfeeding may provide protective antibodies to infants, potentially enhancing their immunity against the virus. This highlights the importance of ongoing research into how various viruses interact with breastfeeding practices.
General Guidelines for Breastfeeding Mothers
For mothers who are concerned about breastfeeding while infected with a virus, it is crucial to consult healthcare providers. They can offer personalized advice based on the specific virus involved and the mother’s health status. In many cases, the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the risks, particularly when the mother is not infected with high-risk viruses.
In summary, while certain viruses can pass through breast milk, the overall risk of significant transmission is relatively low for most common infections. The protective benefits of breastfeeding often prevail, making it a vital practice for infant health. However, awareness and medical guidance are essential for mothers with known viral infections to ensure the safety and well-being of their infants.

Can germs pass through breast milk?

Microorganisms also have been identified in colostrum and breast milk. Few are readily transmitted through breast milk to cause clinically significant infections in infants and children (eg, HIV1, human T-lymphotrophic virus I [HTLV-I]).

What illnesses should you not breastfeed?

When Should I Not Breastfeed My Baby?

• If the mother has been infected with HIV or has AIDS.
• Many medications taken by the mother may pass onto the baby via breast milk.
• Mothers with cancer who are taking cancer chemotherapy medications also cannot breastfeed their babies.

How do I keep my baby from getting sick when 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.

Does breast milk protect against viruses?

Antibodies in Breast Milk Provide Protection Against Common GI Virus. A study led by researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center found that breast milk provides protection against rotavirus, a common gastrointestinal disease that causes diarrhea, vomiting and fever in infants.

What illness can be passed through breast milk?

Serious Illnesses and Breastfeeding

• COVID-19. A parent who tests positive for COVID-19 can breastfeed their infant.
• HIV.
• Hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis C.
• Tuberculosis.
• Other infections.
• Cancer.
• More information.

What virus is transmitted through breast milk?

There are a limited number of infections for which breastfeeding is an important mechanism of transmission (e.g., human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], human T-cell lymphotropic virus types I and II [HTLV-I and HTLV-II], cytomegalovirus [CMV]). Few infections in the mother are absolute contraindications to breastfeeding.

What are three illnesses breast milk can protect against?

Breastfeeding can help protect babies against some short- and long-term illnesses and diseases. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

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

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.

When should mothers not breastfeed?

Women who actively use drugs or do not control their alcohol intake, or who have a history of these situations, also may be advised not to breastfeed. Infants who have galactosemia—a rare metabolic disorder in which the body cannot digest the sugar galactose—should not be breastfed.

Can I pass an infection through breast milk?

Breast milk can occasionally transmit serious viral and bacterial infections to preterm infants. We present three cases of late-onset neonatal sepsis, including one that resulted in death, occurring in preterm infants. The likely source of the microorganisms in all three cases was expressed breast milk.