CDC updates guidance on breastfeeding and COVID-19 transmission

New evidence suggests breast milk is not a likely source of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, according to a recent update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The update includes scenarios to guide people with and without suspected or confirmed COVID-19 in making decisions about breastfeeding and the use of expressed breast milk. While the guidance affirms breast milk as “the best source of nutrition for most infants,” it also links to additional guidance on handling “rare exceptions” when breastfeeding is not recommended. (CDC guidance, 11/16/20)