A new study published in Pediatrics has revealed an unexpected jump in unexplained deaths in Black infants during the first year of the coronavirus pandemic, with the rate of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) increasing by 15%. The overall infant mortality rate dropped to a record low in 2020, but the rate for Black babies in particular spiked, widening an already stark disparity. Dr. Marian Willinger noted that the pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on Black communities and could be a factor in the increase in SUID rates. The CDC is urging parents to practice safe sleep habits and seek medical care for their babies if they have any concerns.
