SWANNEPA Media Forum on Infant Feeding and HIV and AIDS

THANDI KUNENE

Thandi Kunene, Dietician from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, was a guest expert. She raised critical issues relating to infant feeding for infected children and challenges the medical profession to be conscious of the shift in paradigm.
She urged the media to be aware of the international trends in infant feeding. She argues that it is wrong not to breast feed children below the age of six because of their HIV status.“Cow milk is not recommended for children below the age of 6 months.”


Breast milk contributes 50% of the nutrient intake of children 6 months in developing countries üReplacing breast milk nutrients and energy will be a challengeüFrom 6 months of age, infants can be given unmodified animal milk or commercial formula to replace breast milkThe story to now (con’d):Formula feeding from birth does not appear to convey added benefits in settings where there are risks of malnutrition, morbidity & mortality from unsafe preparation
Greater support for exclusive breastfeeding is warranted (particularly to reduce mixed feeding)



Many unanswered questions regarding the timing, safety, & impact of early breastfeeding cessation
Low-cost, nutritious, bacteria-resistant replacement foods are needed to optimize growth, health, and survival – true for all, not just HIV-exposed