Formula feeding and coronavirus

If you or anyone at home is feeding with formula milk, you might be worried about how coronavirus could affect your baby. Try not to be too concerned. By following good hygiene practice you can help keep your baby safe, happy, and well fed.

Here are some tips and advice on how to feed your baby safely

• If you’re unable to get your usual brand of stage 1 (first) infant formula - don’t worry – you can use any stage 1 infant formula, as all preparations have a similar nutritional composition to comply with legislation.
• Don’t use stage 2 follow-on formula for any baby under 6 months – only use stage 1 infant formula
• If you’re using stage 2 follow-on formula for a baby older than 6 months and can’t access this, then changing to stage 1 infant formula is advisable
• If you’re using other milks such as anti-reflux milk, comfort milk etc and can’t access these, then it’s advised to use stage 1 infant formula.
• Always make up formula as per manufacturers guidance – do not be tempted to add more water as diluting the milk could endanger your baby’s health.
• If you or a family member are feeding with formula you should wash your hands beforehand and carefully wash and sterilise the equipment fully before each use and cleaned afterwards. You should not share bottles with someone else.
• If you have any issues getting formula milk then you should call your midwife or health visitor immediately.

You can find more information on formula feeding here.

You can also read Health Scotland's formula feeding preparation leaflet here.

You can read Health Scotland's formula feeding preparation leaflet here.