The Covid-19 pandemic had a monumental impact on our lives. The anniversary date of the economy coming to an abrupt halt on March 12, 2020. We are having a Coronial Sale celebrating all the babies born during the pandemic in honor of this date. Well, I mean, stuck at home, what else are we going to do?
The Covid-19 virus has mutated to the Omicron variant, which seems to be a much milder case. However, some mothers might still question what I do if I test positive for Covid-19.
Below are some recommendations from what I researched. Please note: I'm not a doctor or scientist. These are just words of encouragement and support to get through these uncertain Corona virus times.
WHO (World Health Organization) recommends that you continue to breastfeed your child because the benefits of breastfeeding substantially outweigh the potential risk of transmission. They believe that the risk of Covid-19 infection in infants is low, and the effects are typically mild or asymptomatic. At the same time, the consequences of not breastfeeding and the separation between mother and child can be significant.
The CDC recommends wearing a mask while breastfeeding or isolating away from your baby while pumping breastmilk. They also suggest having another person give your baby a bottle, such as a caregiver. Always wash hands frequently, use hand sanitizer, and clean household surfaces. You and the caregiver must wear a mask when around your baby at all times. Once your symptoms have stopped without medicine for 24 hours, you can return taking care of your baby normally.
"So how do you choose what you want to do?"
Taking care of yourself is the most important thing you can do for your baby. If the mother can control her stress and anxiety, I promise you both will get through this. The following suggestions will help you know what to do to get better quickly. If you know what to do to get better, you won't worry about passing the virus to your baby.
Here are some safe breastfeeding recommendations:
- Take an Epson salt bath, and this will help with the aching.
- If you are experiencing cold-like symptoms, try the Neilmed sinus rinse or neti pot up to 3-4 times a day.
- Drink lots of fluids and electrolytes. Try a liquid IV packet-this can provide the same hydration as 2-3 bottles of water. Or add bone broth to your soup.
- Rest as frequently as much as you can. (take this time to catch up on shows and have you watched Bad Moms lately? It's a great laugh!)
- Vitamin C and D3 are safe and can help boost your immune system.
- If your baby doesn't mind, increase garlic intake.
- Turn on those air purifiers around the house and humidifiers at night.
- If you like essential oils, here is a list of ones that have antiviral properties: Cinnamon bark, Clove, Eucalyptus, Lemon, Rosemary, Bergamot, and Tea Tree.
I hope these suggestions will help you get through this uncertain time. On a positive note, you are passing immunity to your baby from your breastmilk!
With Love,
Corinne Braunwarth
Owner, Designer, Mom of Oh La Lari®
**If you have any severe health problems due to the virus, I recommend you call your doctor right away. These are suggestions for mothers who do not have harsh health conditions and have cold, respiratory, or flu-like symptoms.