Study on Vaccines and Breastfeeding
Research Overview
A recent study has investigated the potential risks and benefits of vaccinating breastfeeding women. The research, featured in an article published in Breastfeeding Medicine, was conducted by the University of California San Diego, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Types of Vaccines Examined
The researcher focused on both active and inactive vaccines to assess any harm they may pose to infants during breastfeeding. The analysis included common routine vaccines such as influenza, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Additionally, vaccines related to specific risk factors and specialty vaccines, including hepatitis A, hepatitis B, anthrax, cholera, rabies, and smallpox, were also reviewed.
Findings and Benefits
The study concluded that vaccinating while breastfeeding is not only safe but also presents several benefits. Notably, it facilitates the transfer of maternal antibodies from mother to infant. This transfer can result in the infant receiving additional antibodies, which may lead to minimal or no fever following the infant’s vaccination.
References
– Anderson, P. (2019). Maternal Vaccination and Breastfeeding. Breastfeeding Medicine. Retrieved from DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2019.0045
– Ryan, K. (2019). Is maternal vaccination safe during breastfeeding? Mary Ann Liebert, INC./Genetic Engineering News.