COVID-19 FAQs
COVID-19 FAQs
I'M PREGNANT
“Can pregnant women pass coronavirus to unborn children?”
At this time, there is not enough evidence to determine whether the virus is transmitted from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, or the potential impact this may have on the baby. This is currently being investigated. Pregnant women should continue to follow appropriate precautions to protect themselves from exposure to the virus, and seek medical care early, if experiencing Coronavirus symptoms, such as fever, cough or difficulty breathing.
Please consult your healthcare professional in case of any questions or concerns.
MY BABY IS BETWEEN 0 AND 6 MONTHS
“What should I do if my baby has symptoms of COVID-19?”
Seek medical attention as early as you can.
“Does COVID-19 affect babies?”
This is a new virus and the World Health Organization does not know enough yet about how it affects babies or pregnant women. What they do know is that it’s possible for people of any age to be infected with the virus, but so far there have been relatively few cases of COVID-19 reported among children and babies. The virus can be fatal, with older people who have pre-existing medical conditions being most at risk. If you have any further questions, contact your doctor.
“Can a baby wear a mask to go outside?”
As masks have certain airtightness, they may be uncomfortable for your little one under 1 year old. Read our article on protecting your baby during COVID-19 for more information from the World Health Organization and HSE on keeping yourself and baby safe.
If you have any further questions, contact your doctor.
MY BABY IS BETWEEN 6 AND 12 MONTHS
“What should I do if my baby has symptoms of COVID-19?”
Seek medical attention as early as you can.
“Does COVID-19 affect infants?”
This is a new virus and not enough is known yet about how it affects babies or pregnant women. It is possible for people of any age to be infected with the virus, but so far there have been relatively few cases of COVID-19 reported among children and babies. The virus can be fatal, with older people who have pre-existing medical conditions being most at risk. If you have any further questions, contact your doctor.
BOTTLEFEEDING AND INFANT FORMULA
Make sure you sterilise all feeding equipment before use, you should not share bottles or feeding equipment with anyone else. See our guide on how to sterilise baby bottles and equipment.
"How should I sterilise my feeding equipment?"
Sterilising your baby’s bottles and teats until they are at least 12 months old is a very important part of your feeding routine. This will help to protect your baby’s immune system and protect them against infections.
Before sterilising, use soapy water and a bottle brush to wash your feeding equipment and remove milk residue. After washing, rinse your equipment in cold running water before sterilising.
For step by step instructions on how to sterilise, see our guide on safely sterilising baby bottles and equipment.
MY CHILD IS STRESSED
“What if my child is stressed about Coronavirus?”
Children may respond to stress in different ways such as being more clingy, anxious, withdrawing, getting angry or agitated, or bedwetting etc. Respond to your child’s reactions in a supportive way, listen to their concerns and give them extra love and attention. Read our article on managing coronavirus stress for more information.
If you have any concern for the mental health of your little one, you should consult with your healthcare professional.
For more information visit:
WHO Public Advice on Coronavirus
Questions about feeding and nutrition?
Our midwives, nutritionists and feeding advisors are always on hand to talk about feeding your baby. So if you have a question, just get in touch.