“That’s why we need more research,” he added.
What does seem increasingly clear, Shlomai said, is that the risk of babies contracting COVID-19 via breastfeeding is “very low.”
And any risk would have to be weighed against the “huge” benefits of breastfeeding, according to Yotebieng.
For one, it’s believed to support babies’ immune system development. Breastfed babies are less likely to develop ear infections, diarrhea, asthma and severe lung infections, according to the CDC.
“We should remember there are infections other than SARS-CoV-2, too,” Yotebieng said.
More information
The World Health Organization has more on COVID-19 and breastfeeding.
