Dr. Chandima Sirithunga, Director of Maternal and Child Health at the Family Health Bureau, emphasized that breast milk provides complete nutrition and essential immunity, especially when access to clean water and proper sanitation is compromised. He stressed that mothers should not be encouraged to use infant formula unless medically necessary.
A media release from the Ministry highlighted the following key points:
Infants up to six months old should be fed only breast milk, with no additional water or other supplements.
Even in disaster conditions, a mother’s milk continues to be produced if she is alive and present. In rare cases where the mother is unavailable, special measures should ensure infants still receive breast milk.
Breast milk provides all necessary nutrients and antibodies required to protect the baby from diseases, which is particularly vital during disaster periods.
After six months, breast milk should continue alongside other complementary foods.
The Ministry also warned against promoting or distributing infant formula and powdered milk during disaster relief efforts, stating that such practices can harm the health of infants nationwide.
Dr. Sirithunga urged all stakeholders to support breastfeeding by providing mothers with essentials such as comfortable seating, nursing covers, blankets, warm clothing for infants, and other items that facilitate safe and effective breastfeeding.
