DOH Leon Observes Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 25, 2021

Florida Department of Health in Leon County Observes Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness Month

TALLAHASSEE, FL – The Florida Department of Health in Leon County (DOH Leon) encourages parents and caregivers to learn about the risk factors of sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) during October, which is National Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness month.

SUID often happens during sleep or in the infant’s sleep area. Research shows by using safe sleep practices, parents and caregivers can help reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths. In Florida, the number of SUIDs decreased from 206 in 2018, to 192 in 2019, while the rate remained the same, at approximately one SUID for every 1,000 live births.

“The sudden unexpected death of an infant is always tragic. But there are a number of ways to lower the risk of SIDS to provide your baby the best care possible,” said Claudia Blackburn, DOH Leon Health Officer.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants sleep alone, on their backs, and in a crib. Cribs should be clear of items like blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, strings/cords, sleep positioners, and bumper pads. Infants should sleep in their own cribs, as the risk of infant death is 40 times higher for infants who sleep in adult beds.

Simple actions can make a big difference. Learning about SIDS and safe sleep practices for infants are important for all caregivers, not just for parents. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, babysitters, childcare providers, and anyone else who might care for infants can learn more about SIDS, SUID, and safe sleep practices by visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s safe sleep website.

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About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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Submitted by:

Pamela Saulsby | Public Information Officer