This fact needs to be continually reiterated to decision makers as otherwise
manufacturers of breast
milk substitutes will capitalise on HIV infection as a reason for promoting free samples
of their formula.10 It is extraordinary that the Wall Street Journal
painted the baby food
manufacturers as heroes poised to save African children from certain death because
of their offer to donate free formula to HIV infected mothers.11 The WHO recommends avoidance
of breast feeding by HIV infected mothers only if replacement feeding is feasible, safe, sustainable, and affordable — otherwise exclusive breast feeding is recommended during the first six months
of life.12 Non-infected women must be given access to credible information, quality care, and support, in order to empower them to make informed decisions regarding feeding
of their infant.13