GRANTEE SPOTLIGHT: INFANT VITALITY COALITION
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of injury death in infancy. Following safe sleep recommendations can prevent many SIDS fatalities. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers information on how babies can sleep safely so parents can sleep soundly.
 
AAP RECOMMENDATIONS
The AAP provides evidence-based recommendations to prevent infant sleep deaths. Here are some things you can do to minimize the risks:
  1. Place your baby on his back for every sleep.
  2. Place your baby on a firm, flat sleep surface.
  3. Keep soft object (blankets, plush toys, or other) out of the crib.
  4. Consider putting your baby in your room (but not in your bed.)
  5. Layer babies for temperature control without blankets.
  6. Offer baby pacifiers at naptime or bedtime, but do not attach to their infant clothing.
  7. Breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of SIDS and is advised unless contraindicated or the parent is unable.
 
In support of maternal and infant health, Community Health Foundation provided $25,000 in funding to help start the new Infant Vitality Coalition, a collaboration of local health providers and social service agencies which is coordinated by the Clark County Combined Health District. The Infant Vitality Coalition is working to improve infant mortality and to decrease pre-term births.