Breastfeeding and Emergencies

Research shows that infants and children are the most vulnerable during emergencies.

• Nearly 95% of infant and child deaths in emergencies result from diarrhea due to contaminated water and an unsanitary environment.
  
• Infant formula has been linked to an increase in infant disease and death: it can also be contaminated and requires clean water and fuel to sterilize formula, bottles, and nipples. Lack of electricity also can make it difficult to preserve formula.
  
• Breastfeeding saves lives! Human milk is always clean, requires no fuel, water, or electricity, and is available, even in the direst circumstances.
  
• Human milk contains antibodies that fight infection, including diarrhea and respiratory infections common among infants in emergency situations.
  
• Human milk provides infants with perfect nutrition, including the proper amount of vitamins and minerals required for normal growth.
  
• Breastfeeding releases hormones that lower stress and anxiety in both babies and mothers.
  
• Mothers who breastfeed are able to keep their babies warm to prevent hypothermia.

Breastfeeding and Emergencies