Jeannette Crenshaw states that hepatitis B-positive mothers may initiate breastfeeding as soon as the infant has received the hepatitis B immunoglobulin. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics states in the 2003 Red Book that breastfeeding need not be delayed until after the baby is immunized. 1 There is no evidence that breastfeeding before the infant is immunized would compromise the health of the baby.

Joan Burke, BSN, RN, IBCLC

New York, NY

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