Mississippi health officials have declared a public health emergency due to the state’s rising infant mortality rate. Over the past decade, more than 3,500 babies died before their first birthday, with 2024 data showing 9.7 deaths per 1,000 live births—the highest in over ten years. State health officer Dr. Dan Edney said, “Too many Mississippi families are losing their babies before their first birthday. We cannot and will not accept these numbers as our reality.”

The crisis disproportionately affects Black infants, with mortality rising from 12.3 per 1,000 in 2023 to 15.2 in 2024, while rates for white babies declined to 5.8. Leading causes include congenital malformations, preterm birth, low birth weight, and SIDS.

Officials plan to expand maternal and infant care, activate an obstetrics system of care, address maternity care deserts, strengthen home visiting programs, and promote safe sleep practices. “Improving maternal health is the best way to reduce infant mortality,” Edney said, emphasizing access to prenatal and postpartum care, community support, and resources for moms and babies.

Experts warn that Medicaid funding cuts could worsen OB deserts and limit access to care. Pediatrician Dr. Anita Henderson noted, “If this trend continues, there will be an increasing amount of OB deserts.” The Mississippi Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics supports the initiative, calling it an urgent call to action.