Q
& A: Preventing
the Flu |
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Breastfeeding
and the Flu |
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Jan
12, 2004
What precautions should I take to protect my baby
if I have the flu and am breastfeeding?
Nursing mothers who have the flu should take the
following steps before every breastfeeding and when handling
their infants:
Put on a surgical mask. (You can purchase surgical
masks in most drugstores.)
Wash your hands thoroughly, and dry them with
a clean towel or paper towels. (Information about hand hygiene
can be found at: www.cdc.gov/od/oc/media/pressrel/fs021025.htm.)
Leave your breasts covered until you have put
on a surgical mask and washed your hands. You can then begin
breastfeeding.
Do not remove your surgical mask until you
are done breastfeeding and you have put your baby down.
Jan
12, 2004
How long should I continue to take these
precautions?
Continue to take these precautions at
every feeding for 7 days following the first day
of your illness (when you first noticed flu symptoms). |