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). |
