How long do flu antibodies last in breast milk?

The Duration of Flu Antibodies in Breast Milk
Breastfeeding provides a unique opportunity for mothers to pass on immunity to their infants, particularly through the transfer of antibodies present in breast milk. Among these, Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies play a crucial role in protecting infants from infections, including the influenza virus.
Research indicates that when a lactating parent is infected with the flu, their body produces specific IgA antibodies that are secreted into breast milk. These antibodies can help shield nursing infants from the influenza virus, offering a layer of protection during a vulnerable period in their development.
How Long Do These Antibodies Last?
The persistence of flu antibodies in breast milk can vary based on several factors, including the timing of infection or vaccination. Studies have shown that IgA antibodies can be detected in breast milk for several months following maternal infection or vaccination. Specifically, one study assessed breast milk samples at various intervals—birth, 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months—and found that while the concentration of these antibodies may decline over time, they remain present for an extended period.
In general, the protective effects of these antibodies are most pronounced shortly after exposure to the virus or following vaccination. The antibodies can provide immediate protection, but their levels may decrease over time. This means that while some degree of immunity can be conferred through breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to continue practicing good hygiene and consider vaccination to maintain higher antibody levels in their milk.
Implications for Nursing Mothers
For nursing mothers who contract the flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that breastfeeding can continue, as the benefits of providing antibodies to the infant outweigh the risks of potential virus transmission. However, mothers are encouraged to take precautions, such as practicing good hygiene, to minimize the risk of passing the virus to their infants.
In conclusion, while flu antibodies in breast milk can last for several months, their concentration and effectiveness may diminish over time. Continuous breastfeeding, combined with good health practices and vaccination, can help ensure that infants receive the best possible protection against influenza.

Will my baby get the flu if I have it?

Your child can get a flu virus by touching something that was touched by an infected person, and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes. People are most contagious with the flu 24 hours before symptoms start, and while symptoms are most active. The risk of infecting others often ends about day 5 to 7 of the illness.

Do flu antibodies pass through breast milk?

Yes, mothers pass on protective antibodies to their babies during breastfeeding for a variety of infectious diseases, such as the flu. Antibodies are a type of protein made by the immune system when a person is exposed to or immunized against a disease. Antibodies are a vital defense against infections.

Can my baby get sick from breastfeeding if I’m sick?

Not only is it safe but breastfeeding during illness is also a good idea. The CDC states, “A mother’s breast milk contains antibodies and other immunological factors that can help protect her infant from illness and is the recommended source of nutrition for the infant, even while the mother is ill.

Do flu antibodies pass to baby?

Flu vaccination during pregnancy also can protect babies for several months after birth against flu and flu-related hospitalizations because the pregnant parent passes antibodies on to the developing baby during pregnancy.

How long do maternal antibodies last in babies?

In humans, maternal antibodies wane over a period of 6–12 months (14–17). The kinetics of maternal antibody decline is correlated to the amount of maternal antibody present in the neonate after birth in that higher titers persist for a longer time.

How long can babies absorb antibodies from breast milk?

IgA antibodies-pIgR dimers are released by the apical membrane as secretory IgA (sIgA) to the breast milk (70). The maternal antibody IgG1 displays a half-life of about 48.4 days in the human newborn; however, they might be found in the serum of 4- to 6-month-old infants (71).

Will my breastfed baby catch my flu?

If you have the flu, you can keep breastfeeding your baby, even if you take antiviral medicines for flu-like symptoms. Breast milk is custom-made for babies, providing antibodies that babies need to fight infection. So, continuing to breastfeed can protect your baby from the infection that your body is fighting.

Is it safe to breastfeed after a flu shot?

Flu vaccination is safe for breastfeeding women and their infants 6 months and older. Women who get the flu vaccine while pregnant or breastfeeding develop antibodies that are shared with infants through breast milk. Therefore, breastfeeding provides some flu protection for infants.

Do breastfed babies recover from colds faster?

On the contrary, your milk is a powerful medicine that can help your little one recover more quickly! When your baby is sick, your milk may actually change its composition in response to the baby’s saliva, providing even more of the beneficial compounds babies need to get well.

How long do flu antibodies last?

After about 6 months, your immunity starts to fade. This falling level of protection (from a lessening amount of antibodies), combined with ever-mutating flu viruses, means it’s important to be vaccinated for the flu every year.