Home / Health / US Infant Mortality Hits Historic Low in 2025
US Infant Mortality Hits Historic Low in 2025
16 Jun
Summary
- US infant mortality reached a record low of under 5.4 deaths per 1,000 births in 2025.
- This decline represents hundreds fewer infant deaths annually compared to previous years.
- New antibody shots and maternal RSV vaccines may be contributing to the positive trend.
Preliminary government data from 2025 indicates the United States has achieved a historic low in infant mortality. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported under 5.4 infant deaths per 1,000 live births, a decrease from approximately 5.5 in 2024. This marks a statistically meaningful reduction, contributing to hundreds fewer infant deaths each year.
Overall U.S. infant deaths fell to an estimated 19,350 in 2025, down from about 20,050 in 2024. While the U.S. rate has declined over decades, it historically lags behind other high-income nations due to factors like poverty and access to care. Experts suggest recent public health recommendations, including an antibody shot for infants and an RSV vaccine for pregnant women, may be contributing to this positive shift.
Further analysis of 2024 data by the CDC revealed other factors influencing infant health outcomes. Improvements in preventing sudden infant death syndrome are also noted, potentially linked to enhanced education on safe sleeping environments. Health officials are hopeful that these efforts will continue to lower the U.S. infant mortality rate.
