Mississippi Declares Public Health Emergency as Infant Deaths Surge

Mississippi has declared a public health emergency in response to a sharp rise in infant mortality—the state’s highest rate in over a decade. In 2024, 9.7 infants died per 1,000 live births, nearly double the national average. Black infants are more than twice as likely as white infants to die before their first birthday. State health officials say the crisis stems from preventable issues like premature birth, low birthweight, and inadequate maternal care. The emergency declaration allows expansion of services like prenatal care in rural areas, high-risk pregnancy referrals, and community outreach. Experts emphasize the need for systemic reforms addressing poverty, healthcare access, and housing to truly reduce infant mortality.

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Source: BET