SIDS Is Not:

caused by vomiting and choking, or minor illnesses such as colds or infections

caused by the diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus (DPT) vaccines, or other immunizations

 

contagious

 

child abuse

 

the cause of every unexpected infant death

Any sudden, unexpected death threatens one's sense of safety and security. We are forced to confront our own mortality (Corr, 1991). This is particularly true in a sudden infant death. Quite simply, babies are not supposed to die. Because the death of an infant is a disruption of the natural order, it is traumatic for parents, family, and friends. The lack of a discernible cause, the suddenness of the tragedy, and the involvement of the legal system make a SIDS death especially difficult, leaving a great sense of loss and a need for understanding.

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