Women during a rally to observe breastfeeding week in Berhampur
BHUBANESWAR: The state government has issued an advisory regarding the prevention of Covid-19 in children. It has said lactating mothers can continue to breastfeed even if they test positive for Covid-19. However, they need to take certain precautions to prevent the baby from getting infected.
“The continuation of breastfeeding by Covid-affected mothers and the timely initiation of nutrient-rich age-appropriate complementary feeding in children is to be ensured,” the advisory issued on Saturday read.
Experts said interrupting breastfeeding may impair milk secretion, thereby depriving both the mother and baby of the benefits of continuous breastfeeding. So breastfeeding should continue until the infant attains two years of age.
Tired of wearing masks, children pull them down at a park in Bhubaneswar on Monday
BHUBANESWAR: By now it has been proven that a large number of children are being infected with Covid-19, unlike last year. Doctors have blamed it on increased exposure to the virus owing to outdoor activities, travelling and general complacency in wearing masks, washing hands frequently and maintaining social distance.
In such a situation, they have advised parents to not hesitate or delay in getting their wards tested as soon as they show any symptom. Home quarantine for 14 days helps in case of suspected contact with a Covid-affected person. Besides, children can be super spreaders. So all outdoor activities for them should be stopped immediately, the city doctors have warned.