The flu is a respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus. It is a disease that is considered seasonal, as it is much more prevalent in the cold months of the year. Here we explain what you need to know about the flu and breastfeeding.

Although for the majority of the population, it is considered almost insignificant, it can become serious for some people who have underlying diseases or are elderly.

Unlike pregnancy, being a breastfeeding mother is not considered a risk factor in which influenza can become serious. Even so, it is possible that many people who are breastfeeding are in the so-called risk groups, for example, because they have respiratory disease, cardiovascular problems, or diabetes, which is when questions can arise. In this article, we would like to inform you about everything you need to know about the flu jab during breastfeeding.

Is the flu vaccine safe during breastfeeding?

Yes, absolutely. The flu vaccine can be given during breastfeeding if you are in the recommended risk group.

Does breastfeeding make you more likely to get the flu or make it more severe?

No, breastfeeding does not increase the chance of getting the flu or having more complications.

If I get a flu vaccine, will flu defenses pass through my breast milk?

Yes, it has been seen that breastfeeding women who receive the flu vaccine have defenses against the disease in their breast milk. This is why, in certain regions, it is advised that if you had a baby less than 6 months ago, you get the flu vaccine to protect the baby, as during the first 6 months of life, it can become a severe disease for babies.

If I have a breastfeeding baby under 6 months old and don’t get a flu vaccine, what can I do to keep my baby from getting the flu?

It appears that the most effective strategy is washing hands to avoid spreading the infection, even if we are talking about a respiratory disease. Avoid having people who do not live with your baby kissing them near their faces or on their hands.

Can I still breastfeed if I have the flu?

Yes, of course you can. You should not stop breastfeeding your baby because you have the flu. It is recommended that you wash your hands often and take the medication that has been prescribed by your physician. If you worry if the medication you are taking is safe and compatible with breastfeeding, you can check on the www.e-lactancia.org website.

As you can see, neither the flu nor the flu vaccine restricts breastfeeding. Both are considered safe. Ask your healthcare center about the vaccination protocols if you are in a risk group where vaccination is advised.

 

References

Schlaudecker EP, Steinhoff MC, Omer SB, et al. IgA and neutralizing antibodies to influenza a virus in human milk: a randomized trial of antenatal influenza immunization. PLoS One. 2013;8(8):e70867. Published 2013 Aug 14. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0070867

​​Centro para el Control y Prevención de Enfermedades. https://www.cdc.gov/spanish/. La seguridad de la vacuna contra la influenza durante el embarazo. 26/08/2021. Disponible en: https://espanol.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/qa_vacpregnant.htm. 03/11/2021