Social distancing is the only option available during the COVID-19 pandemic until a vaccine is developed. However, this is having a major impact on human relationships and bonding between parents and neonates is a major concern. Separation during this health emergency could have lifelong consequences for offspring, and there are even greater concerns if newborn infants are sick or vulnerable and need intensive care. We look at how bonding can be safely supported and maintained without risking infecting neonates, by comparing the international guidelines and proposing safe actions within those frameworks.
Keywords: COVID-19; bonding; guidelines; pandemic; separation.
© 2020 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.