Breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic significantly influenced aspects of children's nutrition, in particular breastfeeding and the percentage of breastfeeding mothers. During the pandemic, changes in postnatal care have occurred and may result in a global decline of the breastfeeding initiation rate and problems with longterm maintenance of lactation. Mother's milk is not a source of viral infection for a child; on the contrary, due to the presence of antibodies specific to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, it gives the possibility of acquiring passive immune protection. Currently, breastfeeding requires special care and protection. Emphasizing the benefits of human milk should become a priority in obstetric, neonatal and pediatric departments.