Association between early initiation of breastfeeding and reduced risk of respiratory infection: Implications for nonseparation of infant and mother in the COVID‐19 context |
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| Authors: | Bindi Borg,Karleen Gribble,Karan Courtney‐ Haag,Kedar R. Parajuli,Seema Mihrshahi |
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| Affiliation: | 1. School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney New South Wales, Australia ; 2. School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Penrith New South Wales, Australia ; 3. UNICEF Nepal, Kathmandu Nepal ; 4. Ministry of Health and Population Nepal, Kathmandu Nepal |
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| Abstract: | Early initiation of breastfeeding, within 1 h of birth, is vital for the health of newborns and reduces morbidity and mortality. Secondary analysis of the 2016 Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) showed that early initiation of breastfeeding significantly reduced the risk of acute respiratory infection (ARI) in children under 2 years. Early initiation of breastfeeding requires maternal proximity. Separation of infant and mother inhibits early initiation of breastfeeding and increases the risk that infants will suffer from ARIs. However, during the COVID‐19 pandemic, guidance varied, with some recommending that infants and mothers with SARS‐CoV‐2 be isolated from one another. Nepal''s Ministry of Health and Population recommended nonseparation, but the adherence to this guidance was inconsistent. Maternal proximity, nonseparation and early initiation of breastfeeding should be promoted in all birthing facilities. |
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| Keywords: | acute respiratory infection (ARI), COVID‐ 19 pandemic, early initiation of breastfeeding, maternal proximity, nonseparation of mother and baby, SARS‐ CoV‐ 2 |
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