Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (IYCF-E) is a critical issue in humanitarian and fragile contexts. Recommended Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices can prevent malnutrition, reduce disease burden, and save lives. However, emergencies can disrupt breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and care practices, putting infants and young children at heightened risk. Conducting timely and reliable assessments of IYCF practices is essential for designing effective interventions and making informed decisions to protect and support the nutrition and health of this vulnerable group.
FHI 360 with the support of AAH UK led the development of an Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (IYCF-E) Assessment Guide, the purpose of which is to provide a standardized methodology for collecting, analysing and interpreting IYCF data in emergencies. The Guide offers an easy-to-use, step-by-step approach to support humanitarian responders to better understand the situation and needs of infants and young children and their caregivers.