Independent
Dr. Rose Ameh, a pediatrician, has said that breastfeeding mothers with the COVID-19 virus can still breastfeed their babies, as breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact are beneficial for both baby and mother.According to Ameh, who spoke in Abuja on Friday, breastfeeding offers a variety of health benefits not only to an infant, but also to a young mother.
“Breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contacts are beneficial for both baby and mother as it improves babies’ survival enhances brain development and reduces the risk of serious illness and death.
“These benefits substantially outweigh the risks posed by COVID-19. Breastfeeding helps the mother to return to her pre-pregnancy weight and reduces the risk of developing breast, ovarian and uterus cancer.
“It also lowers the risk of developing type-II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and post-menopausal osteoporosis in future. Coronavirus is yet to be found in breast milk. However, if you have COVID-19, you might spread the virus to your infant through tiny droplets that spread when you talk, cough or sneeze,’’ Ameh said.
She advised mothers to take precaution by limiting close face-to-face contact with infants, nor cough or sneeze directly but do that into a tissue and trash properly.
“Breast milk is important during public health emergencies, like the COVID-19 pandemic, when it may be more challenging to buy formula and other feeding supplies.
“Your breast milk is the best nutrition for your baby and can protect against …
