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Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is a serious form of head trauma caused by a caregiver shaking or slamming a baby out of frustration. A baby’s head is large compared to their body, and their neck is very weak. Shaking can cause severe damage to the baby’s brain, eyes, and spinal cord that will never get better. Shaking a baby can cause:

  • Brain damage
  • Vision loss
  • Speech or learning problems
  • Seizures
  • Muscle weakness or walking difficulties

One in four babies who have been shaken will die!

The following could mean that a baby was shaken (or something else is going on):

  • Trouble breathing
  • Limpness, like a rag doll
  • Not waking up
  • Being very fussy
  • Problems with feeding or sucking
  • Vomiting without a clear reason
  • Stiffness, tremors, or seizures
  • Bruises without explanation

Call 911 immediately if you are worried about the health or safety of your baby!

Act No. 2002 - 176, Shaken Baby Syndrome Education and Prevention Program signed in December 2002.

The Act requires hospitals to: 

  • provide parents educational materials on SBS free of charge
  • present parents with a voluntary commitment statement indicating that they have received the educational materials

In the United States, approximately 1,300 cases of SBS are reported each year and the leading cause of child abuse deaths in the nation.

  • Twenty-five percent of children who suffer a SBS injury will die and 80% will suffer lifelong disabilities.
  • Most victims are under six months of age.
  • Most SBS victims are male.
  • SBS most often occurs when an adult is frustrated and angry because the baby won't stop crying.
  • Toilet training difficulties and feeding problems can also lead to SBS.           

This information compiled from:  PA Act 176 of 2002, The Pennsylvania Shaken Baby Syndrome Education Program, the Brain Injury Association of America, and the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome.

  • ChildLine: 1-800-932-0313
    A 24 hour hotline available to receive reports of suspected child abuse
  • Early Intervention:  1-800-692-7288
    CONNECT Information and Referral
  • Healthy Baby Line: 1-800-986-2229
    Pennsylvania residents seeking information and referral resources for new parents

Contact Information 

Bureau of Family Health    
Division of Community Systems Development and Outreach
Shaken Baby Syndrome Education Program    
625 Forster St.
Health and Human Services Building
Seventh Floor, East Wing
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17120-0701
717-772-2763