Infant Feeding in the Context of COVID-19: FAQ for the front-line health and nutrition workers

WHO/UNICEF IYCF recommendations have not changed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Initiate breastfeeding within 1 hour of birth
• Exclusively breastfeed for the first 6 months
• Introduce age-appropriate, adequate, safe and properly fed complementary foods starting from 6 months up to 2 years of age
• Continue breastfeeding for up to 2 years of age or beyond

Breastfeeding protects against respiratory and gastro-intestinal illnesses and prevents malnutrition and mortality.