H1N1 Flu/ Seasonal Flu and Breastfeeding Your Baby

• Mothers provide immunity to their babies through their breast milk.
  
• Exclusive breastfeeding provides the most protection from the flu and other infections.
  
• Guidelines for Breastfeeding mothers with seasonal or H1N1 flu:
  
  
  1. Drink plenty of fluids
  2. Rest
  3. Wash hands before touching baby
  4. Continue to breastfeed
  5. Before breastfeeding, wash breasts with mild soap and water
  6. Wear a mask when nursing to prevent sharing the virus with baby and others
  7. Use clean blankets or burp cloths for each feeding
  8. Make sure that others who help to feed your baby follow above guidelines

• Note that flu viruses, including H1N1, do not pass through breast milk.
  
• Breastfeeding mothers can safely receive the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines.
  
• Babies 6 months and older should also receive flu vaccines.
  
• Most flu treatments prescribed by your health care provider, such as Tamiflu and Relenza, are safe to take while breastfeeding.
  
• For medication questions, mothers can contact their health care provider or call the Oklahoma Breastfeeding Hotline @ 1-877-271-MILK (6455) and talk with a Registered Lactation Consultant 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  
  For more information about the flu and vaccines, view the OSDH website:

For additional flu information:

• "Breastfeeding & the Flu" Channel 9 Interview
• H1N1 Flu and Feeding Your Baby: What Parents Should Know
• AAP News: Mothers with Possible H1N1 infection
• ILCA Press Release  Breastfeeding Protects Babies During Flu Season
• ILCA’s Tips for Parents: Protecting Your Baby Against Flu