Why is shaking a baby so dangerous?

Babies are especially vulnerable to brain damage. Their weak neck muscles and large heads mean that the head and brain move violently. Tiny blood vessels are ripped. They bleed into the brain.

Hitting and shaking your baby to stop them crying is potentially life-threatening – it can cause devastating damage such as deafness, blindness, fits and even death. It is also illegal.

IF SHAKING TAKES PLACE: get medical help immediately. Waiting could cause damage or death.