Breastfeeding helps protect babies from a variety of illnesses including 'the flu'
Influenza is a viral illness which infects the nose, throat and lungs. It is commonly referred to as the ‘flu’.
Can I still breastfeed?
Breastfeeding helps protect babies from a variety of illnesses including influenza. This is because breastmilk contains antibodies and other immune protective factors. If you have been diagnosed with or are suspected of having influenza, you should take care to avoid spreading the virus to your baby while you continue to breastfeed. Influenza is not spread to babies via breastmilk. Rather, people infected with the flu can spread it to others via tiny germ droplets (eg when coughing or sneezing).
How can I stop my baby from getting the flu?
There are ways you can minimise the chances of spreading influenza to your baby. Wash your hands well with soap and water:
-
before touching your baby
-
before touching any object or surface that your baby touches
-
anytime you sneeze, blow your nose or cough into your hands.
What if I feel too unwell to breastfeed?
If you’re unwell, then hopefully you have someone with you to help care for your baby. Whoever is helping you out could bring your baby to you for feeds. You could try lying down to feed or reclining on a sofa with baby on your chest.
If you are too unwell to breastfeed your baby, another option is to express regularly so that your baby keeps receiving your breastmilk. However, you may find that this takes as much energy as breastfeeding. If you do decide to express, take extra care with washing hands thoroughly. If you’re using a breast pump, it’s important to clean all equipment properly.
What about my milk supply?
Some mothers notice a supply drop when they are unwell. If this happens to you, you can call to speak to an ABA counsellor for support and get some tips for building your supply.
Are influenza antiviral prescription medications safe to use when breastfeeding?
For up-to-date information about the use of antiviral medications when breastfeeding, call 1300 MEDICINE (1300 633 424).
For more information
-
about avoiding spreading viruses: The Flu and You: Help stop the spread – Australian Government Dept of Health.
-
about immunisations: Vaccination for women who are planning pregnancy, pregnant or breastfeeding. Australian Government Dept of Health
The information on this website does not replace advice from your health care provider.
