Feeding your baby during an emergency
During an emergency, normal patterns for feeding a baby may be disrupted. The recommendations below will help you ensure your baby receives only the safest fluids.
Ministry of Health recommendations
Overview
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For babies less than 12 months old:
- If your baby is fully breastfed, the only fluid you should give them is breast milk. (See below for more on breastfeeding in an emergency.)
- If your baby isn't fully breastfed, you can also give them infant formula and/or 'safe' water (sealed bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least 1 minute, then cooled). (See below for more on formula feeding in an emergency.)
- Don't give them cows' milk as a drink.
- Don't give food to your baby unless they have already started eating solids (usually around 6 months and older).
For breastfed babies
- Keep breastfeeding, as it's the best and safest option – including during emergencies.
- Continue to breastfeed even if you're concerned your milk isn't flowing as well as normally. Offering baby a feed more frequently in such circumstances will help get your supply back to normal.
- Look after yourself by drinking 'safe' water and eating regularly. This will help maintain your breast milk supply.
If you have any concerns or questions regarding breastfeeding, ring PlunketLine (0800 933 922) or Healthline (0800 611 116) for further advice.
For formula-fed babies
Babies are vulnerable to infection and illness because of their immature immune systems. It's essential to follow food safety recommendations (as below) when preparing formula:
- Wash your hands well using soap and 'safe' water – or hand sanitisers, if available.
- Sterilise feeding bottles and equipment by boiling in water for 5 minutes or by using chemical sterilising tablets, such as Milton tablets. (Milton tablets are available from both supermarkets and pharmacies.)
- Use only 'safe' water to make up formula.
- Make up the formula just before giving it to your baby. Discard any unused formula.
- If you're running out of formula powder, borrow from friends and family or buy it from any supermarkets or chemist shops that are still open. Don't use any formula that is past its ‘use-by’ date (as written on the can).
If you're unable to make up formula following these guidelines or have concerns about your baby’s feeding patterns, ring PlunketLine (0800 933 922) or Healthline (0800 611 116) for further advice.
Page last updated: 04 December 2011
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