What To Do If You Get Dengue When Breastfeeding

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If you get dengue while breastfeeding, it is important to take steps to protect yourself and your baby. It is often mistaken that dengue can be passed from mother to baby through breastfeeding, however, that's not the case.

Nevertheless, it is important to take extra precautions to protect both mother and baby from dengue fever.

What To Do If You Get Dengue When Breastfeeding

Here are some things you can do if you get dengue while breastfeeding [1]:

• Get plenty of rest: Dengue can be very draining, so it's important to get as much rest as possible. This will help your body fight off the infection and recover more quickly.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Dehydration is a common complication of dengue, so it's important to drink plenty of fluids. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
• Take over-the-counter medications: Your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter medications to help manage your symptoms. Paracetamol is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
• Avoid mosquito bites: The most important tip of all, tbh! Mosquitoes that carry dengue are most active during the day, so it's important to take steps to avoid mosquito bites during this time. This includes wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and staying in well-screened areas.
• Continue breastfeeding: There is no evidence that dengue can be transmitted through breast milk. In fact, breastfeeding can help boost your baby's immune system and protect them from developing the disease.

Here are some additional tips for breastfeeding mothers with dengue:

• Monitor your baby for any signs of illness. If your baby develops a fever, rash, or other symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
• Make sure you are getting enough calories and nutrients. Dengue can make it difficult to eat, but it's important to make sure you are getting enough calories and nutrients to support your recovery.
• Do not hesitate to ask for help from your family and friends. They can help with chores, childcare, and other tasks so that you can focus on your recovery.