From the United States Breastfeeding Committee: Emergencies often occur when least expected, and sometimes when we are least prepared. They can include a wide range of unsettling events, including personal or family crises, public health emergencies (such as a flu pandemic), acts of terror and violence, and natural disasters or weather-related events (such as floods and blizzards).
Infants and Children are the Most Vulnerable
Nearly 95% of infant and child deaths in emergencies result from diarrhea due to contaminated water and an unsanitary environment.
Infant formula has been linked to an increase in infant disease and death: it can also be contaminated and requires clean water and fuel to sterilize formula, bottles, and nipples. Lack of electricity can also make it difficult to preserve formula.
Breastfeeding saves lives! Human milk is always clean, requires no fuel, water, or electricity, and is available, even in the direst circumstances.
Human milk contains antibodies that fight infection, including diarrhea and respiratory infections common among infants in emergency situations.
Human milk provides infants with perfect nutrition, including the proper amount of vitamins and minerals required for normal growth.
Mothers who breastfeed are able to keep their babies warm to prevent hypothermia.
Breastfeeding in Emergencies is Safe!
The safest food in an emergency is the mother’s own milk. Donor human milk is the next best option. Those who cannot directly feed their babies can also be supported to express their milk.
Stressful situations can make infant feeding difficult, but lactation is still possible. A quiet area that helps a parent relax can help milk flow more freely for the baby.
Even those who have already discontinued breastfeeding may be able to restart lactation through a process called re-lactation.
If a baby (or parent) becomes ill, the best thing they can do is to continue breastfeeding to provide the baby with human antibodies that fight the illness.
Breastfeeding releases hormones that lower stress and anxiety in both babies and mothers.
Support makes the difference!
For more information and resources for Lactation Support Providers & Emergency Responders, go to: Breastfeeding in Emergencies.
CDC IYCF-E Toolkit
The toolkit contains information on how to best support families and provide optimal nutrition to infants and young children during emergencies, specifically natural disasters. The toolkit includes printable materials and resources that can be used with or given to families.