Shared breastfeeding in central Africa.

In this study, shared breastfeeding is described asa novel risk factor for vertical HIV transmission. This cross-sectional survey conducted in the central African country Gabon found that 40% of lactating mothers also breastfed other children than their own, and as many children were additionally breastfed by other women. Shared breastfeeding is increasing the exposure to potentially infectious individuals and has therefore to be considered in breastfeeding recommendations.