Geneva, 04 Aug-(ANA)-Breastfeeding offers babies a lifeline during emergencies, the head of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said.
Margaret Chan said “The life-saving role during emergencies is firmly supported by evidence and guidance.”
A WHO publication said breastfeeding must begin within one hour of birth to prevent malnutrition and mortality.
The agency recommends that babies are breastfed exclusively until they reach the age of six months, and then continue to be breastfed, and receive complementary food, until two years or beyond.
During crises, breastfeeding must be protected and supported through, among other measures, setting up safe corners for mothers and infants, counseling and mother-to-mother support, the agency said.
“As part of emergency preparedness, hospitals and other health care services should have trained health workers who can help mothers establish breastfeeding and overcome difficulties,” Dr Chan said. (ANA)
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