The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) is raising awareness to National Infant Mortality Awareness Month. They want to focus on reducing the state’s infant mortality rate (IMR), one of the highest in the nation.

In 2021, Mississippi’s IMR was 9.3 deaths per 1,000 live births, and while it improved slightly to 9.2 in 2022, the state continues to face significant challenges in protecting its most vulnerable residents.

The IMR is a critical public health indicator, representing the number of infants who die before their first birthday per 1,000 live births. MSDH said they are committed to addressing the factors that contribute to infant mortality through various programs and resources aimed at promoting the health and safety of both mothers and babies.

Key MSDH Programs and Resources:

• Community Baby Showers: These events provide essential items such as car seats and sleep sacks, while educating new parents on infant care and safety.
• Healthy Moms/Healthy Babies Program: Offers home visits and caregiver education to ensure healthy pregnancies and infant care.
• Count the Kicks: A stillbirth prevention initiative that encourages mothers to monitor their baby’s movements in the third trimester.
• Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program (MIECHV): Provides support and education for at-risk families through home visits.
• Maternal Center of Excellence: A partnership with Jackson State University to improve maternal health outcomes.
• Early Intervention Services, Genetic Screenings, and EPSDT Screenings: These initiatives aim to detect and address developmental issues in children early on.

How to Help Lower Infant Mortality Rates:

• Practice Safe Sleep Habits: Always place babies on their backs to sleep, in a crib with no loose bedding or toys.
• Encourage Early Prenatal Care: Regular check-ups during pregnancy can identify and address health concerns early.
• Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco During Pregnancy: Both substances increase the risk of complications that can lead to preterm birth or infant death.
• Focus on Maternal Health: Ensuring women are healthy before and between pregnancies can reduce the risks of complications.
• Reduce Preterm Birth Risks: Follow medical advice to manage conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, which can increase the chances of preterm labor.

MSDH stresses the importance of addressing the social determinants of health—factors like access to healthcare, socioeconomic status, and education—that heavily influence maternal and infant health outcomes. By focusing on comprehensive care for mothers and babies, the state hopes to continue making strides in reducing infant mortality.

For more information on these programs and how you can help support infant health in Mississippi, click here.