Well, I am sorry to report I have no references for you dealing
with the subject of HIV transmission from infant to mother via
breastfeeding.  However, I had a lengthy discussion with an
epidemiologist from Atlanta who gave some insight on the virus.
It never occurred to how very little we know of it until today.
The bottom line is this:  any time there is a chance of blood to
blood or blood to mucous membrane contact (aside from sexual
contact, which doesn't apply in this case) the mother has a
chance to contract the virus. This is a call only the adoptive
mom can make.  She should consider that while the one-time chance
may be slight, she would be exposing herself numerous times a day
to millions of viruses.  Is she willing to risk her life (as well
as her partner's) to breastfeed this baby?
BTW, please keep us posted on the diagnosis of the baby.

Kimberly Elms
Arizona State University
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