As long as there are no herpetic lesions on the breasts (particularly, the nipples), then there is no contraindication to breastfeeding. If the mother has an outbreak, strict hygiene, of course, must be practiced. At our hospitals, since we practice universal precautions, we do not isolate these mothers like we used to. If herpetic lesions are on the nipples, then she must "pump & dump" for a few days until it clears.....V. Nichols-Johnson, MD