In May 2008, the 61st World Health Assembly passed a resolution relating to the safe use of donor breastmilk for vulnerable infants.
This was part of the Infant and Young Child Nutrition:biennial progress report in which member states were urged, amongst a number of items, ‘to investigate as a risk reduction strategy, the possible use and, in accordance with national regulations, the safe use of donor milk through human milk banks for vulnerable infants, in particular premature, low birth weight and immunocompromised infants, and to promote appropriate hygienic measures for storage, conservation and use of human milk.’
In addition, the Assembly requested that the Director General provide, amongst other things, ‘support urgently for research on the safe use of expressed and donated breastmilk, given the current challenges facing countries in the implementation of safe infant feeding practices, mindful of the national rules and regulations and cultural and religious beliefs.’ |
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