COVID-19 infection in breastfeeding women produces neutralizing antibodies that persist in the milk for up to 10 months, suggests a study. 

Led by Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, the study revealed that the antibodies in breast milk, secretory immunoglobulin A, are distinct to immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies found in human blood. Researchers obtained breast milk samples from 75 women who had recovered from COVID-19. They noted that 88% had IgA antibodies and in most cases, these could block infection. Researchers also noted that the women secreted these antibodies for up to 10 months. Dr Rebecca Powell from Icahn’s Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, believes that these antibodies extracted from breast milk could benefit adults with severe COVID-19. The study was presented at the 15th Global Breastfeeding and Lactation Symposium… (News 18 – IANS, September 27, 2021)