New parents face additional challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic while trying to care for their newborns.
We’ve put together some tips and advice to help you navigate through uncertainties.
Tip 1.
Q. How can parents protect newborns at home?
Physical distancing remains the best strategy for limiting risk of infection to babies
Use social media or video applications, such as FaceTime, Skype and Zoom, to connect with friends and family members
Try not taking the baby out to prevent exposing the baby to the virus, unless necessary, such as baby’s hospital vaccination
Wash hands frequently and take special care to wash hands before touching newborns
Tip 2.
Q. Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe for breastfeeding women?
*Jawatankuasa Khas Jaminan Akses Bekalan Vaksin COVID-19 (JKJAV) recommends the Pfizer BioNTech and AstraZeneca for nursing mothers
It is important to discuss vaccination with your obstetrician-gynecologist and/or pediatrician
Mothers should discuss the benefits, risks and the side effects for both mom and baby from the vaccinations
This will enable mothers and their families make informed decision before proceeding with the vaccination
Tip 3.
Q. If mom gets COVID-19 and she's breastfeeding, will it transfer to the baby?
Breastfeeding has not been linked to transmission of COVID-19
There isn't sufficient evidence available at this time to be certain
Tip 4.
Q. If mom has COVID-19, what can she do to keep the baby safe while breastfeeding?
COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets that can easily be transmitted from a mother to her baby during breastfeeding
Moms who have confirmed or awaiting COVID-19 test results should take precautions such as washing their hands and wearing a face mask while holding and breastfeeding baby
In situations where mom and her baby must be separated, it is recommended that moms continue to pump or hand-express milk