The number of Sudden Infant Deaths (SIDS), or Sudden Unexplained Infant Deaths (SUIDS), is on the rise again in Douglas County.
The Douglas County Health Department along with Project Harmony is taking this opportunity to remind expecting parents, new parents, and all infant care providers that adopting safe sleep habits is one of the most important things you can do for your child.
Although SIDS/SUIDS diagnoses are largely inconclusive and unpredictable, statistics show that as many 90 percent of unexpected infant deaths are related to unsafe sleep practices. The statistics are real; SIDS/SUIDS can, and does, happen. New and expecting parents need continued support of family and friends. Know the facts and help prevent this from happening to your family or someone you care about.
For those parents who have experienced a loss of a child due to SIDS/SUIDS, please call the Douglas County Health Department at (402) 444-7471 for additional resources and support. For more information on how you can reduce the risk of SIDS, visit HealthyChildren.org or www.safekids.org.
Project Harmony is a nonprofit, community-based organization that exists to protect and support children, collaborate with professionals and engage the community to end child abuse and neglect. For more information, please call (402) 595-1326 or visit www.projectharmony.com.