What is SIDS?

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden, unexpected death of an apparently healthy infant under one year of age that remains unexplained after the performance of a complete postmortem investigation, including an autopsy, an examination of the scene of death and a review of the medical history.

Facts About SIDS

SIDS claims the lives of almost 2,500 infants in the US each year ­ that's nearly 7 babies every day.
SIDS is not caused by "baby shots."
SIDS deaths occur unexpectedly and quickly to apparently healthy infants, usually during periods of sleep.
SIDS is not caused by suffocation, choking, or smothering.
SIDS is not caused by child abuse or neglect.
SIDS is not contagious.
SIDS occurs in families of all races and socioeconomic levels.
SIDS cannot be predicted or prevented and can claim any baby, in spite of parents doing everything right.

Reducing the Risk

Put your healthy baby on its back to sleep - If your baby has problems breathing or spits up a lot after feeding, ask your doctor about how your baby should sleep.

No smoking near the baby - Do not smoke during pregnancy and do not let others smoke near your baby.

Do not let your baby get too hot - Dress your baby in as much or as little as you would wear.  Do not wrap your baby in lots of blankets or clothes.  If your baby is sweating, has damp hair, or a heat rash, he or she may be too hot.  A baby that has a fever, is breathing fast, or is not able to rest, may also be too hot.

Put your baby to sleep on a firm mattress - Do not let the baby sleep on soft things, like cushions, pillows, blankets, the couch, sheepskins, foam pads, or waterbeds.

Take good care of yourself and your baby - When pregnant, see your doctor often and do not use drugs or alcohol.   Talk with your baby's doctor about changes in your baby and how your baby acts.

When your baby is awake, put your baby on his or her tummy to play. Make sure someone is always watching. "Tummy Time" is good for your baby because it strengthens neck and shoulder muscles.

Offer your baby a pacifier.

If possible, breast feed your baby - Breast feeding has been shown to be good for your baby.

**It's important to share this information with everyone who takes care of your baby so spread the word.