Facts About Infant Feeding During Emergencies

• 2024

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About

This webpage explains how to feed infants during emergencies. It describes breastfeeding as the safest option, even when mothers are stressed or hungry. Ready-to-feed formula is safer than powdered formula, which needs clean water and supplies. Expressed breast milk can be given in a cup if bottles can't be cleaned safely. Frozen breast milk should stay frozen; thawed milk must be used within 24 hours. Breastfeeding helps protect babies from illness, even if the mother is sick. Relactation allows mothers to start breastfeeding again with support from specialists to ensure babies get enough nutrition.

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Tags

Focus Areas: Everyday Emergency; Natural Disasters

Audiences: EMS Clinicians; Nurses

Emergency Management Stages: Response; Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Bottle Feeding; Breast Feeding; Feeding Methods; Infant, Newborn; Mothers; Stress, Psychological; Infant Formula; Emergencies; Emergency Responders

Institutions: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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