Story perspectives
Mississippi Declares Emergency Amid Rising Infant Mortality Rates
10/3/2025
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Story summary
- Mississippi's infant mortality rate was nearly 10 per 1,000 live births in 2024, with Black babies at 15.2.
- Public Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney declared a public health emergency on Aug. 21.
- Experts warn Medicaid cuts could worsen the crisis, affecting six million women of reproductive age.
- Mississippi is exploring telehealth and home visiting programs to improve prenatal care.
