Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

In response to the needs created by the occurrence of SIDS and other infant deaths, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) created the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Program. Funded by the Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant the purpose of the program is to:

1. Ensure compliance with the mandates of Ohio Revised Code 313.121, related to the reporting of sudden and unexpected infant deaths and the provision of support and bereavement services; and
   
2. Provide expert consultation on SIDS; serve as a liaison with national and local SIDS organizations; and act as a resource for current information on SIDS research and risk reduction.

ODH works closely with the SID Network of Ohio, the Ohio Coroner’s Association and local health departments to ensure appropriate service providers are alerted when there has been a sudden infant death in a community.

Through relationships with national and state SIDS organizations and partners including the SID Network of Ohio, the SIDS Alliance affiliates/chapters/support groups, local health departments, Child Fatality Review boards, Ohio Infant Mortality Reduction Initiatives and regional perinatal centers.  ODH distributes educational and resource materials to the public and to professionals.  Training sessions are offered to nurses, first responders, social workers, day care providers and others.

A toll-free hotline (1-800-477-7437) is available to provide support for families.

Mailing Address:
Ohio Department of Health
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Program
246 North High Street
Columbus, OH 43215

Telephone: (614) 728-0773
Fax: (614) 564-2442

E-mail: BCFHS@odh.ohio.gov

Last Updated: 6/20/07
Last Reviewed: 6/11/08

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