Key Facts
• Mississippi declared a public health emergency due to rising infant mortality rates.
• In 2024, the state recorded 9.7 infant deaths per 1,000 births, the worst in 10+ years.
• Over 3,500 infants have died in the state since 2014 before reaching their first birthday.
• Black infants are particularly vulnerable, with a 24% increase in mortality in 2024.
• Main causes include congenital abnormalities, preterm births, low birth weight, and SIDS.
• Nearly half of Mississippi counties are “obstetric deserts” with no obstetric care.
• Emergency measures include expanding maternal care, addressing obstetric deserts, and promoting safe sleep practices.
• The U.S. infant mortality rate rose in 2022 for the first time in 20 years.
• Mississippi’s infant mortality rate is 60% higher than the national average.
• CDC plans to release updated infant mortality data later in 2025.
Summary
Mississippi has declared a public health emergency following a significant rise in infant mortality rates, reaching 9.7 deaths per 1,000 births in 2024, the highest in over a decade. Contributing factors include congenital abnormalities, preterm births, low birth weight, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Black infants face disproportionate risks, with mortality rates increasing by 24% in 2024. Nearly half of the state’s counties lack obstetric care, exacerbating the crisis. Emergency measures aim to improve maternal health, expand access to care, and address “obstetric deserts.” The state’s infant mortality rate is 60% above the national average, highlighting a broader maternal and child health crisis. The CDC is expected to release updated data later this year.
