Just a small note to add to Dr. Dermer's thorough post on chicken pox
(varicella zoster).

...from  Ruff A:  Breastmilk breastfeeding and the transmission of viruses
to the neonate.
Sem in Perinatology 1994;18(6):510-16

"Varicella zoster DNA has been detected in breast milk by polymerase chain
reaction ( PCR).  However, attempts to isolate the virus from women with
either herpes zoster or varicella have been unsuccessful.  No available data
indicate transmission through breastfeeding."

Shirley Gross
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M. Shirley Gross M.D.,C.M., C.C.F.P., I.B.C.L.C.
Director, Edmonton Breastfeeding Clinic
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
E mail at  <  [log in to unmask]  >
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