Disasters and Emergencies

Supporting Information

Family members, other mothers and skilled health workers are important sources of knowledge and practical support for breastfeeding mothers, to encourage six months of exclusive breastfeeding and continued breastfeeding for two years or beyond. In addition to breastmilk, adequate complementary foods should be provided to children older than six months.

Special attention and support are needed for mothers with stress reactions to overcome the unfounded belief that stress permanently affects breastfeeding.

Special attention to exclusive breastfeeding of babies under six months should be a priority to avoid illness and deaths.

If infant formula is judged to be necessary, the mothers or caregivers involved should have practical counselling on hygienic preparation of feeds. Artificially fed babies need a lot of cuddling and holding. They should never be left alone while self-feeding from a bottle. Cup feeding is recommended.