SAN ANTONIO – October is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month. Metro Health’s Healthy Start Program helps raise awareness of sudden infant death in the community.
On Sunday, October 20th, Metro Health will hold its 11th annual Baby Buggy Walk. This event is designed to educate parents about the importance of safe sleep habits.
The event will be held at the Ramon V. Quintero Community Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This includes a one-mile walk, toddler trot, memorial service, produce giveaway, educational sessions, and a fun zone.
SIDS is the third leading cause of infant death worldwide, according to Cori Hebert, health program manager at Healthy Start. She said most of these deaths are related to co-sleeping and sleep-related issues.
Eberle emphasizes the importance of the ABCs when it comes to baby sleep.
A: Babies should be alone.
B: Baby must be on his back
C: Baby must be in a crib or flat surface
“We want to encourage families to share rooms, but not to share beds,” Eberle said.
It is also important to be careful not to leave anything in your baby’s crib. This includes pillows, blankets, toys, and even pets.
Another aspect of safe sleep habits includes breastfeeding.
“Breastfeeding is risky because you tend to get very cozy and cozy with your baby and sometimes fall asleep,” Eberle says.
Eberle suggests having someone nearby who can wake up the nursing mother or set an alarm.
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