Geneva, Switzerland, March 2, 2016 – The World Health Organisation(WHO) has said that the Ebola Virus Disease has been detected in breast milk of survivors 16 months after the attack.
WHO made the revelation today, said studies into virus persistence in breast milk are ongoing and that more evidence is needed to understand the risk of transmission and duration of the virus.
It noted that if Ebola virus is detected in breast milk, lactating survivors should suspend breastfeeding and use a safe breast milk substitute until they obtain 2 consecutive negative Ebola tests.
“Ebola virus has been detected in the breast milk of survivors up to 16 months after the onset of symptoms.
“Studies into virus persistence in breast milk are ongoing and more evidence is needed to understand the risk of transmission and duration of the virus. The revised guidance recommends that if Ebola virus is detected in breast milk, lactating survivors should suspend breastfeeding and use a safe breast milk substitute until they obtain 2 consecutive negative Ebola tests”, WHO said in a statement.
