Community Resources

Finney County Health Recommendations, Resources, & Guidance

BREAST MILK SHARING

According to Dr. Dyan Hes, a pediatrician with New York City’s Gramercy Pediatrics, there is currently no proof that breast milk can cure COVID-19 or give you antibodies. Drinking breast milk as an adult has no health benefit and can lead to a number of illnesses.

Informal milk sharing does not have the same regulations and safety protocols in place as regulated milk banks and milk donors. Breast milk is considered a bodily fluid and is not something to casually share or sell without the necessary safety protocols in place. Human milk can be a source of infection, such as bacteria, or viruses like HIV, HTLV I/II, and CMV. To minimize risk: All donors should be screened and all milk should be pasteurized.

The best way to prevent transmission of COVID-19 and to protect your own health is to practice social distancing, wear a cloth face mask in public spaces, and regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

CDC - COVID-19 & Breastfeeding

Risks in Sharing

La Leche International - Milk Sharing FAQs

La Leche League - Risks & Benefits

6-16-2020 Infectious Disease Society of America - Antibody Testing Primer

Additional Resources