News article

Hurricane Katrina - the importance of breastfeeding during times of disaster

September 2, 2005

Hurricane Katrina brought about widespread destruction and displacement of tens of thousands of people, leaving them at risk for disease, malnutrition, and dehydration. Babies are at particular risk, especially if they are bottle-fed. Baby formula and clean water may be scarce, and breastfeeding may be the best way to ensure survival of this vulnerable population. It is important that babies who are breastfeeding continue to do so– their survival may depend on it.

In addition, in emergencies, women who are not breastfeeding and have recently delivered a baby can be assisted to “relactate”– and this can be successful in establishing a milk supply. Relactation may be challenging, even in the best of circumstances. Breastfeeding rates in US Gulf Coast area are some of the lowest in the country already, and thus there is a shortage of women who are experienced in breastfeeding even in normal circumstances.

Each area sheltering people should establish a clear section where mothers are gathered to continue breastfeeding and receive food and water to assure an abundant milk supply. Recently delivered mothers who are not breastfeeding should be assisted to relactate. During the transition time, ready-to-feed formula in disposable glass or plastic bottles with disposable nipples should be used until full lactation is established. Relief staff should include someone knowledgeable in lactation during emergencies.

It is important to remember that stress, by itself, does not cause a woman’s milk to “dry up.” Human survival has depended on the ability of women to breastfeed even during famines or natural disasters. Every effort should be made to support breastfeeding women with adequate fluids and nutrition.

Additional information on breastfeeding during disasters is available from the World Health Organization, the US Breastfeeding Committee, the International Lactation Consultant Association, and from La Leche League:

• World Health Organization specific guidance on relactation
• US Breastfeeding Committee
• International Lactation Consultant Association
• La Leche League

Still more information and guidelines can be found at the following web pages:

• From the US Department of Health and Human Services
• WHO booklets: Infant Feeding in Emergencies, and more
• “Emergency babywearing” information. This includes suggestions for using shirts, towels, small blankets, etc. to carry babies.
• Emergency Nutrition and more Emergency Nutrition info