Most routine vaccines are compatible with breastfeeding, but the exact vaccine still needs checking. Exceptions such as yellow fever require a separate assessment.
Flu vaccine: safe, with a bonus
The seasonal flu vaccine is safe for both nursing mothers and infants. Better still, the antibodies the mother produces after vaccination can pass through breast milk, giving extra protection to a baby too young to be vaccinated.
COVID-19 vaccine: safe and recommended
The COVID-19 vaccine is safe during breastfeeding, and professional bodies in Hong Kong including the Hong Kong Paediatric Society and the Obstetrical & Gynaecological Society of Hong Kong recommend nursing mothers complete it. Studies also show antibodies against the virus can be detected in breast milk after vaccination.
Other vaccines
Most inactivated vaccines (such as pertussis, hepatitis B and tetanus) can be given while breastfeeding. Only a few live vaccines (yellow fever, for example) call for a benefit-versus-risk discussion with your doctor in special circumstances — something you generally won't encounter unless it's for travel or another specific need.
Confirm the vaccine and breastfeeding advice before vaccination
Tell the clinician you are breastfeeding before vaccination. For compatible routine vaccines, pausing breastfeeding or pumping and discarding milk is generally unnecessary. For yellow fever or another exceptional vaccine, obtain advice specific to that vaccine and your infant before applying general reassurance.
Check COVID-19 service availability separately
Service check, 17 October 2026: CHP still reports a temporary suspension of the government COVID-19 vaccination service after the LP.8.1 supply expired. An expected resumption in the fourth quarter is not a confirmed reopening date. Check the official notice and provider for current service, formulation and supply.