COVID_Breastfeeding with COVID 19 disease: SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in breast milk and disease progression in the first six months of life

ABSTRACT It is unknown whether COVID-19 positive mothers transmit SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in their breast milk to protect their newborns or if breastfeeding can pose a risk of infection (either through consumption of virus or direct contact with the mother during feedings). Scientists hypothesize that (1) the breast milk of these mothers may have SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies which may confer protection; or (2) their breast milk can pose a risk of infection if the virus is shed in breast milk and consumed by the infant. Limited data are available thus far to support either hypothesis. As a result, SARS-CoV-2 related breastfeeding recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) differ. However, previous research has shown that consumption of breast milk in early life confers immunity against several infectious diseases. Evidence-based recommendations for any guidelines require research and clinical studies. The goals of this research are to address this gap and determine if breast milk consumption can confer immunity. These goals will be met through the following specific aims. Specific Aim 1. Detect and quantify SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG/IgA antibodies that are present in breast milk and saliva from mother/infant dyads over 6 months. Specific Aim 2. Detect the presence of neutralizing antibodies in breast milk and saliva samples from mother/infant dyads. Specific Aim 3. Determine if and how consumption of breast milk from a COVID-19 positive mother affects SARS-CoV-2 infection, progression and possible recurrence in their infants.