Department of Health
Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, Commissioner

SIDS is defined as “the sudden death of an infant less than one year old which remains unexplained after a thorough case investigation, including performance of a complete autopsy, examination of the death scene and review of the clinical history.” It is the leading cause of death for babies between one month and one year old. SIDS most often occurs between the ages of two and four months. Babies who are born to younger mothers are more likely to die from SIDS, as are babies born to smokers. African American and Native American babies are two or three times more likely to be affected by SIDS than other ethnic groups. Because the cause is unknown, SIDS cannot be prevented, however measures can be taken to reduce your baby’s risk.

• SIDS affects babies of all races and income levels
• SIDS affects babies who appear healthy
• SIDS is not caused by choking or other minor illnesses (colds or infections)
• SIDS is not caused by immunizations
• SIDS is not contagious nor caused by abuse
• SIDS is not the cause of all unexplained infant deaths

We encourage you to further educate yourself about SIDS by exploring these links:

• Fact Sheet:  Learn more about SIDS and how to protect your baby as best you can.
• SIDS Program:  Read about how the state of Tennessee is working to decrease the number of SIDS deaths
• DSI Training:  Read about how medical professionals are being taught to properly handle sudden unexplained infant deaths.