Infant fatalities linked to fentanyl poisoning rose by 500% in Missouri

MISSOURI(KBSI) – Infant deaths in Missouri are rising.

According to the Missouri Child Fatality Review Program (CFRP) Annual Report for 2022. 

infant fatalities rose related to sleep related suffocation and fentanyl poisoning.

In 2022 of infant fatalities from non-medical reasons 74% were from the infants sleep environment.

79 infants died from sleep related suffocation in 2022, a 22% increase since 2022.

“Losing even one infant to a preventable cause is tragic,” said Robert Knodell, Director, Missouri Department of Social Services. “We recognize that parenting an infant can be stressful and overwhelming. Parents are often looking for any way they can to sooth their child, however, it is imperative they understand that not following the ABCs of safe sleep is dangerous and can be potentially fatal for their child.”

Parents and caregivers can promote safe sleep by following the ABCs of safe sleep which are,

-Alone, Back, Crib.

There should be nothing in the crib except for the infant and a fitted sheet.

The crib should not contain any toys or soft bedding such as blankets, bumper pads, or pillows. To learn more about safe sleep visit safesleep.mo.gov.

In addition, infant fatalities linked to poisonings, specifically fentanyl poisonings doubled in 2022.

Fentanyl related deaths for children under age 5 rose by 500%.

“As children become mobile and enter a phase of development where they are explorers of their environments it is especially important for caregivers to make sure that all medications and substances are locked up and out of reach.” Said Dr. Terra Frazier, Associate Program Director, Child Abuse Pediatrics Fellowship Program at Children’s Mercy Kansas City and Chair of the State Child Abuse and Neglect Review Panel. “Many caregivers underestimate what children will find and put in their mouth. With many poisons help can be sought once it is known that an ingestion occurred however, fentanyl is so potent and dangerous for young children that by the time a caregiver realizes what has happened it may be too late. Anytime a caregiver suspects that a child may have been exposed to a poison they should seek medical care immediately and clearly communicate their concerns to the medical team. Rapid administration of naloxone can be lifesaving!”

You can review all Child Fatality Review Program annual reports by visiting this website.

The Department of Social Services strongly encourages anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect to call the toll-free hotline at

1-800-392-3738.

The Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline is answered 24-hours a day, every day, all year round.