The Parathions attack cholinesterase (similar action to nerve gas).  The
baby would not display any symptoms unless the level of exposure were
severe.  The baby can be tested for cholinesterase activity, and treated
if necessary.

The mother's milk can be tested for the presence of cholinesterase
inhibitors.  Information about one such test is available from:

    ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY L
    RM 224, BG 007, BARC-WEST
    BELTSVILLE
    MD 20705
    FAX: 301-504-5048

ARS Report Number: 0000033269

I would encourage the mother to keep nursing unless the above tests
found a problem, in which case I would advise the mom to pump and
dump until her milk tested clear of the poison.  My thinking is that there's
no reason to stop BF unless the baby has a problem AND the mom's
milk would aggravate it.  Of course, I'm a student, not an expert, so
I'd really like to hear what the rest of you think.

So far as I know, recovery from poisoning is complete in adults after
low-level exposure.  This doesn't necessarily mean a neonate will have
no permanent damage - I don't think anybody knows what effect
exposure will have on infant neurological development, unless there is
data from the Iraqui gas attacks against the Kurds, which still might not
be conclusive due to the other poisons used, including HCN.  If there's
any data, it's probably military.  EPA might be able to find out.  Also, if
any neurologists are listening, they might be able to make a much more
informed guess.

As with anything I write, if anyone here finds this useful in helping BFing,
feel free to reproduce and use it as you see fit.

Jonathan
           L. Jonathan Kramer, P.E.
            [log in to unmask]
       Graduate Breastfeeding Counselor
         Student Lactation Consultant
      Certified Medela Nursing Bra Fitter
 Only G-d knows the formula for mother's milk