COVID-19 : Caring for babies born to infected mums
Babies born to infected mums are entitled to essential care given to every other baby. But, the big concern for such mothers is how to prevent the babies from contracting the disease.
Public Health officials also agree that it is important to minimize the chances of transmitting the virus from infected mums to their babies.
Notwithstanding , the health experts say it is less likely for the virus to be transferred from the mother to the fœtus . No virus has so far been found in the amniotic fluid of an infected mum.
Cameroon currently counts 43 infected mums receiving health care at the special treatment centres nationwide .
South West region #18
North West region #11
East region #6
Adamawa region #5
Centre région # 2
Littoral region # 1
After birth, babies are said to have greater chances of contracting the virus , if care is not taken.
In order to prevent contamination of these new borns, health experts have presented some practical guidelines for infected mums.
“Do’s” and “Don’ts” for infected mums
Like healthy mums , infected mums are required to breastfeed babies, and routinely administer eye drops, and vitamin K .
But before that, health experts say protecting children from the virus during delivery is very vital. Mums ought to maintain a good hygiene and wear a mask before being admitted into the labour room , to avoid infecting the new born.
Breastfeeding is an unlikely source of transmitting the virus . Prof Evelyn Mah, Pediatrician, specifies that “No virus has been found in the the breastmilk of infected mums”. However, an infected mum is required to respect social distancing, properly clean her hands and wear a mask before breastfeeding.
With regards to whether or not the infected mum and baby should stay in the same room, the pediatrician says there is no harm in sharing a room. But, in order to completely rule out any chances of infection, infected mums, must not share a bed with their babies.
Kathy Neba Sina