Brooksville, FL- The Florida Department of Health in Hernando County will host the next meeting of the Florida Healthy Babies initiative on June 20, 2017 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m, 7551 Forest Oaks Blvd. in Spring Hill. This initiative is a state-wide effort to address high rates of infant mortality at the county-level.

In Hernando County the infant mortality rate for 2013-2015 is 7 infant deaths per 1,000 live births; for the state of Florida, this rate is 6.1. Thirty two infant deaths occurred between 2013 and 2015 in Hernando County.

“We are working with health care providers, community partners, and community members to reduce infant mortality,”

"According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies are safest when sleeping alone, on their backs, in a crib in the parents’ room for the first six months of life," Nursing Director Virginia Crandall, shared. ""We are continuing to work on targeted outreach for our Safe Sleep campaign and encourage the public to attend our monthly meetings."

“Together, our goal is to create a community where everyone experiences the conditions that result in the best health possible,” Crandall concluded.

So far since the project began, we have had great participation and input. Please join us so we can continue to put the great ideas into action. The three work groups have been working hard. We have been so pleased with the enthusiasm and passion each of you bring to the table.  Please RSVP by Wednesday June 14 to me either by replying to this email or by phone at (352) 540-6800 ext. 82153.