Breastfeeding when you or your baby get sick

If you or your baby are unwell with an infection like the flu, COVID-19 or gastroenteritis, you may wonder whether to keep breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is one of the ways to help protect your baby from these illnesses. Even if you’re sick, you can continue breastfeeding.

The germs that cause infectious illnesses don’t pass into your breastmilk in a way that would harm your baby. These infections are spread through close contact, coughing or sneezing. 

Breastmilk contains antibodies that help your baby fight infections. Breastmilk also helps your baby’s immune system to develop. 

When you’re exposed to an illness, your body makes antibodies to help you recover. These pass through breastmilk to your baby and may help protect them from getting sick or from being more unwell. 

For example, breastfed babies are less likely to get diarrhoea from gastroenteritis than babies who are formula-fed.¹ If your baby does get sick, it’s often milder and doesn’t last as long.²

If you’re feeling very unwell, there are still ways for your baby to have your breastmilk.

You could ask someone to bring your baby to you for feeds. You might find it easier to feed lying down or lying back with your baby on your chest. 

If you’re too unwell to breastfeed directly, if you feel up to it, you could express your milk. Removing milk will keep your breasts comfortable, help maintain your supply and your baby still gets the benefits of your breastmilk. Take care to wash your hands and  clean all equipment properly.  

If you have vomiting or diarrhoea, keep yourself hydrated by drinking fluids regularly.

Some mums notice their milk supply drops when they are unwell. 

This is often temporary. Feeding or expressing often and drinking fluids regularly can help support your supply. Your supply will usually improve as you recover.  

If you’re concerned, you may find it helpful to speak with a breastfeeding counsellor or your healthcare provider.

Many infections spread through contact, droplets or contaminated surfaces. Good hygiene can help reduce the chance of passing illness to your baby or others.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, after using the toilet, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose, especially before touching. your baby.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze and throw away used tissues straight away.
• Avoid coughing or sneezing directly near your baby where possible.
• Clean and sanitise feeding equipment and commonly touched surfaces.
• Avoid sharing items like towels, cups or utensils while you’re unwell.

If your baby is unwell with a cold, chest infection, flu or gastroenteritis, breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for them. 

Breastmilk helps your baby fight the illness, keeps them hydrated and provides easily- absorbed nutrients.
Your baby may want to feed more often or for shorter periods. Follow their cues and offer feeds whenever they seem interested.

If your baby usually eats solid foods, they may not feel like eating much while they are unwell, but they may still take breastmilk.

Is my baby’s poo normal?

Many parents aren’t sure what breastfed baby poo looks like and may think it’s diarrhoea.

• Babies who are only having breastmilk often have many mustard-yellow (sometimes green) poos that are runny with a few curds. These poos usually have a mild smell.
• Frequent, soft poos show your baby is getting enough breastmilk.

Most medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding. However, some cold and flu medicines contain pseudoephedrine, which can affect milk supply. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your options.

You can also call 1300 MEDICINE (1300 633 424).

It’s a good idea to seek medical advice if:

• you’re concerned about your own health or finding it hard to stay hydrated
• your baby is very unwell, not keeping fluids down, or you’re worried for any reason
• you or your baby have symptoms and you would like advice about care or treatment.

If you or your baby are hospitalised, you may need further breastfeeding support. 

Further reading

Influenza

• Influenza (flu) – Australian Centre for Disease Control
• Influenza (flu) vaccine – Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Aging 

Gastroenteritis (gastro)

• Gastroenteritis (gastro) – Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne Fact Sheet
  Practical information about gastro in children, including symptoms, care at home, and when to seek help.
• Gastroenteritis in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding – MotherSafe (NSW Royal Hospital for Women)
  Advice for pregnant and breastfeeding women on managing gastro, staying hydrated, and practising good hygiene.
   

COVID-19

• Breastfeeding and COVID-19 – what you need to know – The Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria.
• COVID-19 vaccination: COVID-19 vaccination decision guide for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy - Australian Government Department of Health

The information on this website does not replace advice from your health care provider.

© Australian Breastfeeding Association June 2026