On Monday, April 7, 2025, a significant awareness campaign about Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) took place across Italy, spearheaded by the organizations Terres des Hommes and Simeup (Italian Society of Pediatric Emergency Medicine). With the support of Anpas (National Association of Public Assistance), Fimp (Italian Federation of Pediatricians), and the Hospital Network against Child Abuse, the campaign aimed to educate the public on the dangers of this severe form of child abuse.
The campaign was marked by the establishment of information points at various locations, including the Michele e Pietro Ferrero hospital in Verduno. Here, healthcare professionals provided critical information and distributed educational materials to parents and caregivers. The initiative coincided with the National Awareness Day for Shaken Baby Syndrome, which is recognized globally on April 7.
Shaken Baby Syndrome is a serious brain injury that can occur when an infant is shaken violently, often in response to inconsolable crying. This condition can lead to severe injuries, including permanent brain damage, blindness, and even death. As explained by the experts, violent shaking—even for just a few seconds—poses a significant risk, particularly for infants under one year of age.
During the campaign, which ran from April 5 to April 7, 2025, Terres des Hommes set up information points in over 70 cities across 18 Italian regions. This initiative aimed to inform parents and caregivers about the risks associated with shaking infants and to provide practical advice on how to cope with a baby's inconsolable crying.
Federica Giannotta, Advocacy and Programs Manager for Terres des Hommes, emphasized that "Shaken Baby Syndrome is a form of child abuse that often arises from a lack of information and awareness about the dramatic consequences that loss of control, even for a few seconds, can have on a newborn." Giannotta noted that many caregivers might not intend to harm the child but may react impulsively in moments of stress.
Elena Vecchioni, president of Federfarma Verona, highlighted the role of pharmacies in this awareness campaign. She stated, "Pharmacies will indicate how to behave in response to the crying of newborns, suggesting actions such as taking the baby for a walk." This simple gesture can help caregivers manage their stress without resorting to harmful actions. Vecchioni stressed the importance of pharmacies in reaching out to the community to educate them about this critical issue.
In addition to providing information, the campaign also included the distribution of posters, leaflets, and videos in participating pharmacies. These materials aim to educate parents on recognizing the physiological nature of crying in infants, particularly between the ages of 2 weeks and 5 months. Paola Miglioranzi from FIMP noted, "Recognizing that crying is a normal part of being a baby helps parents feel less isolated and more supported during challenging times."
The campaign also featured training sessions aimed at healthcare professionals, ensuring they are equipped to provide guidance to parents and caregivers. In Crotone, for instance, Stefania Zampogna, head of the pediatrics department at the local hospital, announced a training meeting for young mothers on April 8, 2025, focusing on the topic of Shaken Baby Syndrome.
During this meeting, Zampogna will discuss the signs of SBS and the importance of remaining calm in stressful situations. She advised, "If you feel like you are losing control, it is better to step away for a moment, leaving the baby in a safe place, to regain your composure and seek support." This proactive approach aims to prevent impulsive actions that could lead to tragic outcomes.
The National Prevention Days against Shaken Baby Syndrome, promoted by SIMEUP in collaboration with Terres des Hommes, are taking place from April 5 to April 10, 2025. In five cities in Calabria, including Crotone, dedicated information points will be active to raise awareness among parents, caregivers, and healthcare workers.
As part of the ongoing effort to combat this serious issue, healthcare experts will explain which behaviors to avoid when dealing with a crying infant and how to manage emotional stress effectively. The campaign's goal is to create a broader understanding of the dangers of shaking infants and to provide practical strategies for caregivers.
The importance of collaboration among those involved with children and their families was underscored by various speakers at the campaign events. They stressed that simple conversations can help alleviate parental insecurities and clarify that not all crying indicates a problem requiring immediate action.
In summary, the campaign led by Terres des Hommes and Simeup on April 7, 2025, serves as a vital resource for parents and caregivers, aiming to equip them with the knowledge and tools necessary to prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome. By raising awareness and providing support, the initiative hopes to ensure the safety and well-being of infants across Italy.
