Louisiana Healthcare Connections Reminds Families to Keep Babies Safe This Summer
Date: 07/10/25
Baton Rouge, LA – As summer temperatures rise, Louisiana Healthcare Connections is reminding parents and caregivers that keeping babies safe during the warmer months requires extra care and attention. From preventing heat-related illness to ensuring safe sleep, the health plan is committed to supporting Louisiana families with the tools and resources they need to protect their youngest members.
“Summer is a time for fun, but for infants, the heat can be dangerous,” said Dr. Stewart Gordon, Chief Medical Officer at Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “We want to make sure Louisiana residents have access to essential education and support that helps keep their babies healthy and safe.”
Summer Safety Tips for Infants
- Avoid Overheating: Dress infants in lightweight clothing and keep them out of direct sunlight. Never leave a child in a parked vehicle, even for a minute.
- Hydration is Key: Babies under 6 months should be exclusively breastfed or formula-fed. For older infants, offer fluids frequently.
- Safe Sleep Practices: Ensure babies sleep alone, on their back, and in a crib free of blankets, pillows or toys.
Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies
New Moms need to look out for their own health during the hot summer months as well.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for both the mother’s well-being and milk production if breastfeeding. Moms are encouraged to drink plenty of water, electrolyte-rich drinks, or consume water-rich foods like cucumbers, melons, and oranges.
- Diet: A balanced diet is equally important. Fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins provide the nutrients and energy new moms need.
Louisiana Healthcare Connections offers a comprehensive suite of maternal and child health programs that support members from pregnancy through the first year of a baby’s life. These include:
Start Smart for Your Baby®, a care management program, including an app, that provides health education, appointment scheduling assistance, and connection to community resources.
Member Baby Showers, hosted across the state, offer education, baby supplies, and connections to local maternity care resources.
Safe Sleep Kits, through the Cribs for Kids® program, with a free portable crib and safe sleep education to help reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID).
Expectant and new parents who are members of Louisiana Healthcare Connections can access these maternal health services and resources at no cost. Visit our website or call 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711) for more information.
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About Louisiana Healthcare Connections
A Medicaid health plan serving the Louisiana Department of Health, Louisiana Healthcare Connections was launched in 2012 to provide the best benefits and programs possible to improve the overall health of the families and communities we serve. We are a company of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), focused on identifying and removing barriers to good health with sustainable solutions that help improve health outcomes. Through a family of engaged employees, dedicated providers and community partners, we deliver care for the health of all with Medicaid Made Personal. For more information, visit our website.