Overview

COVID-19 is caused by a virus. It can cause a fever, a cough, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. COVID-19 mainly spreads through droplets from coughing, sneezing, breathing, and singing. The virus also can spread when people are in close contact with someone who is infected.

Most people have mild symptoms and can take care of themselves at home.

Caring for a baby while you are sick with COVID-19 can be a challenge. You'll want to take care of yourself and keep your baby safe from the virus.

The virus can be passed to a baby during pregnancy, but it is rare. After birth, a baby can get the virus through person-to-person contact—just like anyone else. That's why if you are sick with COVID-19 when you have your baby, you and your doctor can talk about ways to protect your baby. This includes wearing a well-fitting mask when you are near your baby. It also includes washing your hands before you touch your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether it's best for your baby to share your hospital room or not. You might want to have your baby sleep in an incubator rather than an open bassinet.

Talk to your doctor about how long you, or your baby, should stay away from other people. It might be as long as a few weeks.

How can you care for yourself and your baby at home?

• Stay home. Leave your home only if you need to get medical care. But call the doctor's office first so they know you're coming.
• Talk to your doctor about how long you, or your baby, should stay away from other people. It might be as long as a few weeks.
• Wear a highly protective mask that fits properly when you are around other people, including your baby. A mask can help slow the spread of the virus. Children under 2 years of age should not wear a mask.
• Limit contact with people in your home. If possible, stay in a separate bedroom and use a separate bathroom.
• Avoid contact with pets and other animals. If you can, have a friend or family member care for them while you're sick.
• If you are able, move around as much as possible. Getting out of bed can help prevent blood clots in your legs.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then throw the tissue in the trash right away.
• Wash your hands often, especially after you cough or sneeze. Use soap and water, and scrub for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Don't share personal household items. These include bedding, towels, cups and glasses, and eating utensils.
• Clean and disinfect your home every day. Use household cleaners or disinfectant wipes or sprays.
• Ask your doctor if you can take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to relieve your fever and body aches. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

Feeding your baby

• Take extra care to avoid passing the infection to your baby.
  • Wash your hands well before you touch your baby.
  • Wear a highly protective mask that fits properly. Wear it anytime you are close to your baby.
• Take care if you pump breast milk or feed your baby with a bottle.
  • Wash your hands well before you touch the pump or bottle.
  • Clean the pump well when you're done, and sanitize your pump and bottles. Read the instructions that came with the pump, or ask for help from your doctor or midwife.
  • If someone else feeds your baby, they should be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines. And they should wash their hands and wear a highly protective mask that fits properly.
• Go to COVID-19 Information for Albertans | Alberta Health Services to find more COVID-19 information for expectant and new parents.