Which situation requires a mother to temporarily refrain from breastfeeding or feeding expressed breast milk?

A mother must temporarily refrain from breastfeeding or feeding expressed breast milk when infected with untreated brucellosis because this zoonotic infection poses a risk of transmission to the infant through breast milk. Brucellosis is caused by bacteria that can be present in unpasteurized dairy products and can lead to serious health issues. The disease can cause flu-like symptoms in adults, and in infants, exposure could result in serious complications or infections.

In contrast, while some antibiotics may require caution or specific considerations, many are safe to use while breastfeeding, provided that the prescribed medication is compatible with lactation. A varied diet generally does not necessitate stopping breastfeeding and is encouraged for nutritional diversity. Similarly, taking vitamins, especially those recommended for postpartum women, is typically safe and beneficial without the need to stop breastfeeding. This makes untreated brucellosis the clear and critical reason for a temporary halt in breastfeeding, ensuring infant safety.