Here's what World Health Organisation recommends for new mothers who are COVID-19 positive:
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Transmission of active COVID-19 through breast milk and breastfeeding has not been detected so far.
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Women with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 should therefore breastfeed if they wish to do so. There is no reason to avoid.
Placing the newborn close to the mother also enables early initiation of breastfeeding which also reduces mortality.
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The numerous benefits of skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding substantially outweigh the potential risks of transmission and illness associated with COVID-19.
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Breastfeeding women with COVID-19 should however take adequate precautions and maintain good hygiene.
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New mothers should wash hands frequently with soap and water especially before touching the baby.
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Breastfeeding mothers should also wear a medical mask during any contact with the baby, including while feeding.
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Breastfeeding mothers should also sneeze or cough into a tissue and then dispose it of immediately and wash hands again.
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Breastfeeding COVID-19 positive mothers are also recommended to routinely clean and disinfect surfaces that they have touched.