Breastfeeding and COVID-19

COVID-19 is a type of coronavirus. It is related to other viruses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Common symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

Yes. You can keep breastfeeding your baby if you have COVID-19 or think you might have it.

Being close and continuing to breastfeed helps protect your baby. Breastmilk has antibodies and other factors that support your baby’s immune system.

If you need support, you can speak with a breastfeeding counsellor. 

If you are too unwell, you could express your milk if you can. This means your baby can still have your breastmilk, even if you are not feeding directly.

It’s important to:

• wash your hands well before expressing
• make sure any pump or equipment is cleaned after each use

You may need to ask a partner, family member or health professional for help.

Some mums notice their supply drops when they are unwell. If this happens, you could:

• keep breastfeeding or expressing often
• drink fluids regularly

Your supply will often improve as you recover.

If you’re concerned, you can talk with a breastfeeding counsellor.

Even if you don’t have any symptoms, there are things we can all do to minimise the chances of spreading COVID-19: 

• Wash your hands often using soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.  

• Cover your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing, and immediately throwing away any used tissues. 

• Avoid close contact with anyone who has cold or flu-like symptoms. 

• See a doctor if you develop even the mildest of symptoms including a runny nose, cough, fever, sore throat etc.  

For the latest information about COVID-19 where you live, refer to your state health department website.

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You don’t need to stop breastfeeding before or after vaccination.

Health organisations such as the World Health Organization recommend vaccination for people who are eligible, including those who are breastfeeding.

If you have questions, you can talk with your doctor.

When you are vaccinated, your body makes antibodies to protect you.

These antibodies can pass into your breastmilk. They may help protect your baby.

Antibodies have also been found in the breastmilk of women who have had COVID-19.

When a woman is vaccinated during pregnancy, antibodies can also pass to the baby before birth.

Current evidence shows that COVID-19 vaccines are safe for breastfeeding mums and their babies.

It’s usually safe to keep breastfeeding if you have COVID-19 or choose to have the vaccine. Your milk continues to support and protect your baby.