The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months of an infant's life.  According to the organization, the milk contains vital antibodies and nutrition necessary for sustaining the child.


The WHO joins the effort in promoting the 2009 World Breastfeeding Week, promoting breastfeeding during emergencies.  During events such as tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes, breastfeeding can save infants' lives when supplies are low or contaminated. 


Infants and young children are especially vulnerable to malnutrition, illness, and death in these situations.  Whatever the emergency – from earthquake to conflict, from floods to the flu pandemic – the story is the same: breastfeeding is a lifeline and a shield that protects infants in emergencies.


Check out our panelist Daphne Brogdon's take on World Breastfeeding Week.




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