The fifth wave of the epidemic in Hong Kong continues to break out, with an increasing number of children testing positive, raising public concern about young children contracting the virus. Currently
Are babies at high risk of infection?
Dr. Xu stated that if the mother has not been vaccinated against COVID-19 before or during pregnancy, the baby has a higher chance of being infected. This is because the immune system of young children is immature, and for the first six months of life, they rely on antibodies passed from the mother through the placenta or breast milk.
Breastfeeding mothers are suitable for vaccination.
Due to doctors' recommendations during pregnancy to stop many medications to avoid transfer to the baby via breast milk, some vaccines present the same issue, causing many breastfeeding mothers to worry about whether vaccinating and subsequently breastfeeding will have a negative impact on their baby's health.
Dr. Xu pointed out that studies have found that messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and other additives in vaccines are unlikely to enter breast milk. Instead, antibodies produced by the mother after vaccination can be transferred to the infant through breast milk, providing them with protection. It is worth noting that the level of antibodies transferred through breast milk, like those in adults after vaccination, declines over time.
Do I need to discard breast milk after vaccination?
Dr. Xu pointed out that research indicates most vaccine ingredients do not enter breast milk, so mothers can continue breastfeeding after vaccination and do not need to discard their milk. Mothers will have sufficient antibodies 14 days after receiving two doses of the vaccine, which can then be passed to their infants through breast milk.
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How to reduce the risk of infection in young children?
If toddlers have passed the breastfeeding stage and are under 3 years old and unable to be vaccinated, Dr. Xu suggests that family members complete their vaccinations, go back to basics, and pay attention to the personal hygiene of the toddler and caregiver, while also thoroughly cleaning the home. In daily life, pay attention to a balanced diet and arrange appropriate exercise for the toddler. Strengthen immunity, and at the same time ensure sufficient rest.
