Should I still breastfeed if I have the flu?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You have mild flu symptoms (low fever, runny nose, sore throat) and can safely practice hand‑washing and mask‑wearing while nursing. In this scenario, the antibodies in your milk can help protect your baby.
• Good fit: You are able to maintain regular feeding schedules and your baby is thriving on breastmilk, making it important to avoid unnecessary supplementation that could disrupt milk supply.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: You experience a high fever (above 101°F / 38.3°C) or severe respiratory symptoms that limit your ability to breathe comfortably while nursing, which could reduce milk transfer and increase risk of accidental exposure.
• Warning sign: You have a compromised immune system (e.g., due to chemotherapy, HIV without treatment) where the flu could pose a higher risk to you and potentially affect milk composition.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Breastmilk contains flu‑specific antibodies that may lower the likelihood or severity of infection in the infant.
• Continuing to nurse helps preserve milk supply, avoiding the need for pumping or formula later.

Cons

• Close contact increases the chance of respiratory droplet transmission, especially if hygiene practices lapse.
• Maternal fatigue and dehydration from illness can reduce milk volume, potentially leading to inadequate feeding.

Decision Checklist

• Are your flu symptoms mild enough that you can comfortably breastfeed while wearing a mask and washing your hands frequently?
• Do you have access to supportive measures (e.g., extra fluids, rest, help from a partner) to maintain milk production?
• Have you consulted your healthcare provider to confirm that any medications you take are compatible with breastfeeding?

Alternatives to Consider

If you or your baby are at higher risk, you might temporarily express milk and have a healthy caregiver feed the baby with a bottle. This maintains supply while reducing direct exposure. Another option is to supplement with donor human milk or formula for a short period until you recover, then resume direct nursing.

Final Recommendation

For most mothers with mild flu, continuing to breastfeed is advisable because the protective antibodies outweigh the manageable transmission risk, provided strict hygiene is followed. If symptoms are severe, your health is compromised, or you cannot maintain clean feeding practices, consider expressed milk or temporary supplementation and seek guidance from a medical professional.