Yes! In most cases, you should continue breastfeeding even when you are sick or have a fever. Your body makes antibodies (special protections) that pass through your milk to your baby. It’s like giving your baby a magical extra defense right when they need it most.
In most cases, you should continue breastfeeding even when you are sick or have a fever. Your body makes antibodies (special protections) that pass through your milk to your baby. It’s like giving your baby a magical extra defense right when they need it most.
Wearing a mask around your baby can also help prevent spreading germs.
Have another caregiver feed your baby with your pumped milk so your supply stays strong.
Health conditions like asthma or diabetes can make you feel worse when you’re sick. It’s important to keep up with your care. Take your daily medicines as prescribed. Stopping them suddenly can make you feel worse and affect your milk supply.
Talk with your WIC provider and health care team about medicines or treatments that are safe to use while breastfeeding.
Medicines and BreastfeedingAntibiotics:
Cold remedies:
Watch for MastitisIf you have a fever, chills, body aches, or just feel “off,” it could be the start of a breast infection called mastitis.
Your breast may not look red or swollen at first, so pay attention to how you feel. If your symptoms get worse or do not improve after 24 hours, get medical attention right away.
When to Be Extra CarefulSome illnesses need special care or treatment before you can safely breastfeed:
In most cases, it is safe – and even good – for your baby if you keep breastfeeding while you are sick. If you’re unsure, talk with your health care provider or WIC staff. Remember to rest – your body needs time and care to recover and return to good health!
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About breastfeeding special circumstances.
(2025, September 23).
https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/about/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. COVID-19 and breastfeeding. (2025, September 23).
https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/hcp/illnesses-conditions/covid-19.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. How zika spreads. (2025, January 30).
https://www.cdc.gov/zika/causes/index.html
Infant Risk Center. (2025).
https://infantrisk.com/
National Library of Medicine. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). (2006).
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/
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