Breastfeeding considerations

Research suggests that breast milk isn’t likely to spread the COVID-19 virus to babies. The bigger concern is whether an infected mother can transmit the virus to the baby through respiratory droplets during breastfeeding.

If you have COVID-19, take steps to avoid spreading the virus to your baby. Wash your hands before breastfeeding and wear a face mask during breastfeeding and whenever you are within 6 feet of your baby. If you're pumping breast milk, wash your hands before touching any pump or bottle parts and follow recommendations for proper pump cleaning. If possible, have someone who is well give the baby the expressed breast milk.