Covid-19 antibodies found in breast milk of vaccinated infected moms

Subject – Science and Tech

Context – Covid-19 antibodies found in breast milk of vaccinated, infected moms

Concept –

Mothers who contract Covid infection and those who get vaccinated against the disease produce breast milk with active SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, according to a study.
However, the study does not imply that breast milk antibodies can provide protection against Covid for nursing children.
Mothers who had disease-acquired immunity produced high levels of Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies against the virus in breast milk, while vaccine-acquired immunity produced robust Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies.
- Both antibodies provided neutralisation against SARSCoV-2, the first time such evidence has been discovered for both IgA and IgG antibodies.
A neutralising antibody defends a cell from an infectious particle by preventing any effect it has biologically.
Breast milk from both mothers with Covid infection, and from mothers receiving mRNA vaccination, contained these active antibodies that were able to neutralise the virus.
The results showed that these antibodies exist for three months after infection.
However, it is not yet shown whether these breast milk antibodies can provide protection against Covid for nursing children.
- The study does not imply that children would be protected from illness, and breast milk antibodies may not be a substitute for vaccination for infants and children, once approved.

Types of antibodies –

Immunoglobulin A (IgA): It’s found in the linings of the respiratory tract and digestive system, as well as in saliva (spit), tears, and breast milk.
Immunoglobulin G (IgG): This is the most common antibody. It’s in blood and other body fluids, and protects against bacterial and viral infections. IgG can take time to form after an infection or immunization.
Immunoglobulin M (IgM): Found mainly in blood and lymph fluid, this is the first antibody the body makes when it fights a new infection.
Immunoglobulin E (IgE): Normally found in small amounts in the blood. There may be higher amounts when the body overreacts to allergens or is fighting an infection from a parasite.
Immunoglobulin D (IgD): This is the least understood antibody, with only small amounts in the blood.