Can Breastfeeding Continue After Enterovirus Infection in Siblings?

Enterovirus and breastfeeding

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my eldest son, who is four years old.
On Friday, December 29th, he started feeling chills in the afternoon and later that evening had a fever of 38.7°C.
We went to a clinic where he was prescribed medication, and after taking one dose, his fever subsided.
The next morning, December 30th, he woke up complaining of a sore throat.
Upon checking, I noticed small white blisters in his throat.
We then went to the emergency room, where the doctor diagnosed him with herpetic pharyngitis.
He only had symptoms in his throat; there were no blisters on his hands or feet.
After that, we took him to my in-laws' house to isolate him from his three-month-old brother.
On January 3rd, during a follow-up visit, the doctor said my eldest son was recovering and that his throat no longer hurt.
However, on January 2nd, I also started feeling chills in the afternoon after helping to bathe the baby.
That evening, I measured my temperature and it was 38.9°C.
I went to the clinic for medication and tried to isolate myself from the baby, asking my mother to take care of him.
My question is, will the baby be at risk of infection?
On January 3rd, I went to the emergency room with a sore throat and was confirmed to have the same herpetic pharyngitis as my eldest son.
We then isolated the baby and sent him to my in-laws' house while my eldest son returned to live with me.
The baby is still breastfeeding.
Can I continue to give him breast milk if I have the enterovirus? If not, how long should I wait before I can resume breastfeeding? If my throat feels better and is no longer painful, how long should I isolate from my three-month-old brother to be safe?
Thank you for your guidance.

amanda, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/04

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

Enteroviruses can be contagious one day before symptoms appear, so there is still a possibility that your second child could be infected.
There are no enteroviruses in breast milk, so it is safe to express and bottle-feed.
The virus is most contagious through respiratory droplets during the first seven days after the onset of illness, and it can be shed in feces for up to a month.
It is important to wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom.

Reply Date: 2024/01/04

More Info

Breastfeeding after an enterovirus infection in siblings can be a concern for many parents, especially when it comes to the health and safety of the infant. In your case, it seems that your older child has been diagnosed with herpetic pharyngitis, which is often caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), and you are worried about the potential transmission of the virus through breastfeeding.

Firstly, it is important to clarify that enteroviruses and herpes viruses are different types of viruses. Enteroviruses can cause a range of illnesses, including hand, foot, and mouth disease, while herpes viruses, particularly HSV, can lead to conditions like herpetic pharyngitis. The transmission routes for these viruses differ, and understanding this can help alleviate some concerns.

1. Transmission to the Infant: If your older child has herpetic pharyngitis, the primary concern would be the potential for transmission of the herpes virus, not enterovirus. Herpes simplex virus can be transmitted through direct contact with lesions or through respiratory droplets. If you are not exhibiting any symptoms of an active herpes infection (such as cold sores), the risk of transmission through breastfeeding is significantly reduced. However, if you have any active lesions or symptoms, it is advisable to avoid direct contact with the infant until those symptoms have resolved.

2. Breastfeeding While Infected: If you are currently experiencing symptoms of an illness (like fever or sore throat) but do not have any visible lesions, you can continue to breastfeed. Breast milk provides essential antibodies and nutrients that can help protect your infant from infections. However, it is crucial to maintain good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact if you are symptomatic.

3. Duration of Isolation: After recovering from symptoms, it is generally recommended to wait at least 24 to 48 hours after fever resolution before resuming close contact with your infant. This is to ensure that you are no longer contagious. If you have had a confirmed diagnosis of herpetic pharyngitis, it is wise to consult your healthcare provider for specific guidance on when it is safe to resume breastfeeding and close contact with your infant.

4. Monitoring the Infant: Keep an eye on your infant for any signs of illness, such as fever, irritability, or changes in feeding patterns. If you notice any concerning symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.

5. Consulting Healthcare Providers: It is always best to discuss your specific situation with your pediatrician or a healthcare provider. They can provide tailored advice based on your health status and the health of your children.

In summary, breastfeeding can continue as long as you are not exhibiting active herpes lesions and are practicing good hygiene. If you are symptomatic, it is advisable to maintain distance until you have fully recovered. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the best course of action tailored to your family's health needs.

Similar Q&A

Do Symptoms of the Same Enterovirus Vary Among Different Individuals?

Hello, doctor. Last week, my eldest child was diagnosed with enterovirus, experiencing only a sore throat and fever. However, I got infected as well, and in addition to a sore throat and fever, I have developed severe blisters on my hands, feet, and face. Since my eldest was diag...

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Hello: Yes, the manifestations of the same enterovirus can vary among different individuals. Some people may be asymptomatic, while others may experience oral ulcers, rashes on the limbs, or even severe symptoms, making it difficult to predict. However, it is generally believed t...

Can a Mother with Chickenpox Continue Breastfeeding? Key Considerations

Hello Doctor: Last month, I had shingles, which has now crusted over. However, before the onset of my condition, my wife shared meals with me. Two days ago, my wife developed chickenpox and has already visited a clinic for examination. We also have a one-month-old baby and a four...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
1. You should consult an obstetrician-gynecologist. 2. It is possible; the typical incubation period is two weeks. 3. It is not necessary. 4. The effectiveness of the vaccine for 4-year-olds still exists, so there is less to worry about, but it is not absolutely effective. ...

Understanding Enterovirus Isolation: Guidance for Parents with Infected Children

Hello Dr. Pei, my eldest child was diagnosed with enterovirus on Monday, and my 8-month-old daughter developed a fever on Thursday and was confirmed to have enterovirus on Friday. We tried to isolate the eldest as much as possible when we knew about the diagnosis, but it's p...

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Hello: There are over sixty types of enteroviruses, and once infected, an individual only gains immunity to that specific type. If it is confirmed that the younger sister was infected by the older sister, then the older sister will not be reinfected by the younger sister. Wishing...

Can Pregnant Women Contract Enterovirus from Infected Children?

If the wife is about to give birth and there is a child at home infected with enterovirus, will she be at risk of contracting the virus and potentially transmitting it to the fetus?

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Most cases of enterovirus occur in children, but pregnant women, who have weaker immune systems, also need to be particularly cautious. It is advisable to maintain isolation as much as possible and to frequently wash hands with soap. Hands should be washed before eating anything ...