Which of the following viral infections is transmitted through breast milk?

The correct answer is that HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) can be transmitted through breast milk. This is significant because it highlights the need for careful consideration when evaluating the risks and benefits of breastfeeding for mothers who are HIV positive. While breastfeeding provides many health benefits, including nutritional and immunological support, the presence of HIV in breast milk poses a potential risk of transmission to the infant.

This understanding is crucial in the context of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), which encourages breastfeeding but also emphasizes informed choices for mothers with specific health concerns. It is essential for healthcare providers to offer guidance about breastfeeding practices, particularly in cases where mothers are known to be HIV positive. In such situations, alternatives to breastfeeding, such as formula feeding, may be recommended to prevent the transmission of the virus to the infant.

While HBV (Hepatitis B Virus) and HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) have certain risks associated with breastfeeding, they are not primarily transmitted through breast milk, and the risk of transmission is significantly lower compared to HIV. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a viral infection that spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and does not have a route of transmission through breast milk. Thus, understanding these distinctions is vital for promoting