Abstract
Abstract Background: The ongoing global health challenge posed by the COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a thorough examination of vaccine efficacy, particularly the transfer of vaccine-induced immunity to infants via human milk. This meta-analysis aims to explore the persistence and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccine-induced antibodies in human milk, offering insights into passive immunity transfer to breastfeeding infants. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed studies published from January 2021 to December 2023, extracted from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Our focus was on studies measuring SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies (IgA and IgG) in human milk following maternal COVID-19 vaccination. Results: Fifteen studies involving 1,200 lactating mothers who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines were included. The analysis highlighted a consistent presence of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgA and IgG antibodies in human milk, persisting for up to six months post-vaccination. Conclusion: The results highlight the noteworthy transmission of COVID-19 antibodies via human milk, suggesting an extended duration of possible protection for neonates against SARS-CoV-2 infection. This argues in favor of immunizing nursing mothers as a preemptive public health strategy to provide their children passive immunity.
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