HIV and breastfeeding has hit the news right on schedule--- on the eve of
World Breastfeeding Week. Each July, the New York Times or the Wall Street
Journal publishes a sensational article on the dangers of breastfeeding.
Perhaps all of us on Lactnet can help put this in perspective for our local
newspapers and agencies. Before responding to any article or publication, we
need to read it first. We can obtain a copy of the New York Times article from
our local public libraries. We can obtain the report on HIV from UNICEF or
WHO. We have a number of very good statements on HIV and infant feeding from
many organizations.

ILCA published its HIV statement in the #3 issue of the 1997 Globe. Reprints
of the ILCA statement are available from the office. ILCA was invited by WHO
to participate in the recent briefing in Geneva. ILCA has distributed its HIV
statement at international research conferences on HIV. NABA (the National
Alliance for Breastfeeding Advocacy) has a packet available of HIV and infant
feeding statements from close to a dozen organizations.

Using these statements may be helpful for all of you who wish to respond to
the various agencies and media who have been discussing these issues.

Marsha Walker
Weston, MA