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SIDS Resources

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Contact Information
Genetics and Healthy Childhood

930 Wildwood Dr.
PO Box 570
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570

Email
info@health.mo.gov
Phone
573-751-6266

In the United States, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is one of the top five reasons why babies die. In Missouri in 2024, 111 infant deaths were sleep-related. (Missouri Child Fatality Review Program Annual Report, 2024)

What are SUID and SIDS?


Sudden and unexpected death (SUID) means a baby younger than one year old dies suddenly. No one expected it. Doctors don't know why it happened until they look closely. In Missouri, a special law says that when a baby between one week and one year old dies suddenly, a group of experts must look at the case. Doctors also have to do a special check of the baby's body to learn more. 

SIDS is when a baby younger than one year old dies suddenly. Even after doctors do a careful check and look at everything about the baby's health, they still can't find out why. Most SIDS deaths happen when babies are very young. 

 

 

Ways to Help Keep Babies Safe While They Sleep:

  • Always put your baby on their back to sleep.
  • Use a firm bed for your baby. This could be a mattress in a crib, bassinet or playpen that has been approved for safety. Cover it with a fitted sheet only.
  • Breastfeeding can help lower the chance of SIDS.
  • Share your room with your baby, but not your bed. Your baby should sleep in their own crib or bassinet in your room. It is best to do this for the first year or at least for the first 6 months.
  • Always use a crib, bassinet or playpen that is approved for safety. Use it for every sleep, at night and for naps.
  • You can try offering your baby a pacifier. If you are breastfeeding, wait until it is going well before giving your baby a pacifier.
  • Do not put soft things, toys, crib bumpers or loose blankets in your baby's sleep area.
  • Do not smoke, vape, use tobacco products, drink alcohol or use illegal drugs while you are pregnant or after your baby is born.
  • Do not smoke or let anyone smoke near your baby.
  • Do not let your baby get too hot while sleeping. Make sure nothing covers their head.
  • Go to all your doctor's visits for you and your baby, and make sure your baby gets all recommended vaccines.
  • Be careful when you buy products or devices for your baby and always follow safe sleep practices. 
  • Practice tummy time to increase the baby’s strength and encourage proper development.