The Mississippi State Department of Health has declared a public health emergency in response to a sharp rise in infant mortality across the state.

Newly released data show that Mississippi’s infant mortality rate in 2024 reached its highest level in more than a decade, with 9.7 infant deaths for every 1,000 live births. The increase was especially pronounced among newborns less than 28 days old, with 5.9 deaths per 1,000 live births.

Officials said the leading causes of infant mortality include congenital malformations, preterm birth, low birth weight, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

“Too many Mississippi families are losing their babies before their first birthday,” said State Health Officer Dr. Dan Edney. “This is deeply personal to me — not just as a physician, but as a fat

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