Posted by: thepinetree on 10/09/2013 06:39 PM
Updated by: thepinetree on 10/09/2013 06:41 PM
Expires: 01/01/2018 12:00 AM
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SIDS Awareness Month
San Andreas, CA....Calaveras County Public Health is observing SIDS Awareness Month in October. SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is the sudden, unexpected death of a baby younger than one year of age when there is no other reason for the death. SIDS is the leading cause of death among infants between one month and one year of age. “SIDS Awareness Month is a time for Public Health to bring information to families about ways to lessen the risk of SIDS,” stated Dr. Dean Kelaita, Calaveras County Health Officer....
SIDS usually occurs between the first and fourth month of age, but it can occur in babies up to 12 months of age. “We cannot prevent SIDS, but there are steps that families can take to reduce the risk,” continued Dr. Kelaita. The Safe to Sleep campaign increases families’ understanding of the steps to reduce risk. The campaign has helped to decrease the SIDS rate by more than 50% since 1994. The steps to reduce risk include:
Always place a baby on the back to sleep for naps and at night.
Place baby to sleep on a firm sleep surface without pillows, sheepskins or other
soft materials.
Keep soft objects, toys, and loose bedding out of baby’s sleep area.
Keep baby monitor cords, window drape or blind cords out of baby’s reach.
Keep your home smoke-free.
Be sure the baby does not get overheated during sleep.
Keep the baby’s sleep area close to but separate from parents and others.
These steps can make a safe sleep area for a baby. They are recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Share this information with everyone who cares for a baby including grandparents, other relatives, friends, child care providers, and babysitters.
Public Health provides supportive services through the Baby & Me Nurse Home Visiting Program. The program nurse works with pregnant women, new parents, and those caring for infants to help keep babies healthy. There is no cost for this service.
For more local support services and SIDS information, call the Public Health Department at 754-6460 and visit the website at http://www.co.calaveras.ca.us/cc/departments/publichealthdepartment.aspx
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