Breastfeeding is a powerful and natural way to feed your baby. But what happens when you’re feeling under the weather? Whether you have a mild cold, flu, or fever, it’s normal to worry about how your illness might affect your baby. Many new moms ask: Is it safe to continue nursing with the flu or cold? Can illness pass through milk? What about a high fever? The good news is, in most cases, you can and should continue breastfeeding while sick.
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about breastfeeding while sick, including safety, immune protection in milk, common concerns, and tips for staying healthy.
Can You Breastfeed While Sick?
Yes, in most cases, you can breastfeed while sick. It's usually the best thing you can do for your baby. When you get sick, your body starts producing antibodies to fight off the illness. These antibodies are passed through your breast milk and help protect your baby from getting sick too.
Unless you have a rare condition like untreated HIV or active tuberculosis, it's safe to keep nursing. If you’re unsure, check with your doctor. Also, if you're expressing milk for storage, make sure to follow proper breast milk storage guidelines.
Nursing With Flu or Cold: Is It Safe?
Nursing with the flu or a cold is generally safe. The flu virus does not pass through breast milk. However, you can still spread the virus through coughing, sneezing, or touching your baby with unwashed hands.
Here’s how to breastfeed safely with the flu or a cold:
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Wash your hands often
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Wear a mask while nursing
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Avoid kissing your baby on the face
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Clean and disinfect surfaces often
Even while sick, your milk is full of immune protection that can help your baby fight off infections. Learn more about enhancing supply naturally in this guide on increasing breast milk.
Can Illness Pass Through Breast Milk?
This is one of the biggest concerns moms have when they get sick. The simple answer is no, most common illnesses do not pass through breast milk. Your body fights off the illness and produces antibodies, which go into your milk and help boost your baby’s immune system.
Some illnesses that are safe during breastfeeding:
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Common cold
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Seasonal flu
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Stomach virus
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Sore throat
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COVID-19 (with precautions)
For example, if you're recovering from a virus and expressing milk to store later, be sure to learn how long breast milk can last outside or in the fridge for safety.
Flu While Breastfeeding: What to Know
The flu may make you feel worse than a cold, but it doesn’t mean you need to stop breastfeeding. Continuing to breastfeed helps your baby build immunity.
To safely nurse with the flu:
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Wear a face mask
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Rest between feeds
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Stay hydrated
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Use safe medications (see below)
Flu viruses do not travel through breast milk. Instead, your milk will contain immune-boosting antibodies that help shield your baby.
COVID and Breastfeeding: Is It Safe?
One of the biggest concerns today is COVID and breastfeeding. The World Health Organization and pediatric experts say it’s safe to breastfeed if you have COVID-19, as long as you take precautions.
If you have COVID-19:
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Wear a mask during feeds
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Wash your hands before touching the baby
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Clean all breast pump parts thoroughly if expressing milk
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Disinfect surfaces often
Your breast milk is not likely to carry the virus—but it will carry antibodies that help your baby fight infection. This is another example of the remarkable immunity in breast milk.
The Role of Immune Protection in Milk
One of the most amazing things about breast milk is its ability to protect your baby from infections. When you're sick, your body responds by making specific antibodies that fight the virus or bacteria.
These antibodies are passed into your breast milk and go straight to your baby. This means that even while you’re sick, you’re actively helping your baby stay healthy.
Breast milk also contains:
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White blood cells
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Enzymes
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Proteins that destroy germs
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Prebiotics that help good bacteria grow in the baby’s gut
You might notice changes in milk during illness, like a metallic taste, but this is usually harmless.
Safe to Breastfeed Sick: Doctor-Approved Guidelines
Doctors and healthcare providers usually recommend continuing breastfeeding even when you're sick. Here's why:
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Your milk protects your baby from catching your illness
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Breastfeeding offers comfort and nutrition
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It helps maintain your milk supply
Follow these safety tips:
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Use tissues when coughing or sneezing
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Avoid coughing directly on your baby
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Take doctor-approved medicine only
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Practice good hygiene
Otherwise, breastfeeding is not only safe but helpful. It gives comfort and strengthens your baby’s immune system. If you're considering freeze-drying breast milk to preserve its nutrients, it’s a smart choice—especially if you’re ill and need a break.
Illnesses That Require Stopping Breastfeeding
Although rare, there are a few conditions where you might need to pause or stop breastfeeding:
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HIV (if untreated)
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HTLV-1 and HTLV-2
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Active tuberculosis (until treated for at least 2 weeks)
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Herpes lesions on the breast
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Certain medications or cancer treatments
Always talk to your doctor to understand what’s safe and what’s not.
When to Seek Medical Advice
You should contact a healthcare provider if:
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You have a fever over 102°F (39°C) for more than 3 days
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You’re vomiting and can’t keep liquids down
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You feel too weak or tired to care for your baby
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You are prescribed new medication
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Your baby shows signs of illness
Getting medical help early can make a big difference.
Tips to Take Care of Yourself While Sick
Taking care of yourself is key to a quick recovery. Here are some simple steps:
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Rest often: Your body needs energy to fight the illness
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Stay hydrated: Drink water, soups, or electrolyte drinks
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Eat nourishing foods: Fruits, veggies, and whole grains help
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Ask for help: Let your partner or family support you
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Don’t skip feeds: Your baby will help keep your milk flowing
Even when you're sick, breastfeeding can bring comfort to both of you.
How to Protect Your Baby From Getting Sick
Worried about passing the illness to your baby? These tips can help:
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Wash your hands before touching the baby
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Clean baby’s toys and pacifiers often
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Wear a mask if you’re coughing
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Avoid face-to-face breathing during feeds
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Don’t share food or drinks
If you're travelling, this guide on travelling with breastmilk can help keep milk safe and your baby healthy.
Natural Remedies That Are Safe During Breastfeeding
You don’t always need strong medicine to feel better. Some natural remedies are safe during breastfeeding:
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Warm teas (like ginger or chamomile)
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Honey and lemon for a sore throat
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Steam inhalation for congestion
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Salt water gargles
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Essential oils (diffused, not applied)
Always check with a doctor before using herbal remedies.
Medications and Breastfeeding Safety
Many over-the-counter medicines are safe to use while nursing. But not all. Avoid strong decongestants or drugs that can reduce milk supply.
Safe options usually include:
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Paracetamol (for fever and pain)
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Ibuprofen (anti-inflammatory)
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Cough drops (without menthol)
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Nasal saline sprays
Always check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding while sick may seem scary, but in most cases, it’s not only safe—it’s helpful for your baby. Your breast milk is filled with immune-boosting nutrients that protect your little one. Whether you’re nursing with a flu or a cold, experiencing a fever, or simply feeling tired, remember this: your body was made for this. With proper rest, hydration, and medical care when needed, you can recover while continuing to give your baby the best start in life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I breastfeed with a sore throat?
Yes. A sore throat won’t harm your baby, and your milk will provide antibodies. Your baby won’t catch your sore throat through breast milk. Just be sure to wash your hands and avoid coughing near your baby’s face.
2. Can illness pass through milk?
In most cases, no. Instead, antibodies in your milk help protect your baby. Common illnesses like colds, flu, and stomach bugs are not transmitted through breast milk. Your milk becomes a natural shield for your baby’s health.
3. What if my baby gets sick?
Keep breastfeeding. It provides hydration and immune support for your baby. Breast milk is easier to digest and helps your baby recover faster. It also offers comfort during illness.
4. Will breastfeeding make my illness worse?
No. The bonding and hormones may help you feel better. Breastfeeding releases oxytocin, which can reduce stress and even help you rest more easily, supporting your recovery.
5. Should I pump and discard milk while sick?
No, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Your milk is safe and beneficial. Pumping can help maintain your supply if you’re too tired to nurse directly, and the milk can still be fed to your baby.
6. Is it safe to take flu medicine while nursing?
Some flu meds are safe, but always ask your doctor. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are generally considered safe. Avoid medications that can dry up your milk, like strong decongestants.
7. What if I’m too tired to breastfeed?
Ask for help. Try lying down to feed or pump and have someone feed the baby. Rest is important, but skipping feeds can reduce your supply, so find the most comfortable way to continue.
8. Does breast milk change when you’re sick?
Yes, it becomes richer in antibodies to protect your baby. Your milk adjusts to fight the illness you have, giving your baby targeted protection and a stronger immune boost.
9. Can I breastfeed with COVID-19?
Yes, but wear a mask and wash your hands before feeds. Your milk can carry protective antibodies against COVID-19, helping keep your baby safe. Follow hygiene guidelines closely.
10. Will my baby refuse milk if I’m sick?
Usually not. Your baby may nurse more for comfort. Some babies might notice a slight change in milk taste, but it doesn’t usually lead to refusal. Continue feeding unless your baby shows signs of distress.