Brief Resolved Unexplained Event (BRUE)

A brief resolved unexplained event (BRUE) happens quickly and can be scary for parents or caregivers. When a BRUE happens, your baby’s appearance may change, or their breathing may slow or stop, but then return to normal.

Cause

Your baby’s doctor or health care provider may say what happened to them was a BRUE. They will do this if there is no known cause for the event at this time.
If this happens again or your baby develops more problems, they may need another visit with their doctor or health care provider.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pale or blue skin
• No breathing, breathing less, or irregular breathing
• Tight or very relaxed, limp muscles
• Baby seems to be more sleepy

At Home

• Always place your baby in a crib, alone and on their back. Do not put things like stuffed animals, blankets, or pillows in their crib.
• Do not let anyone smoke or vape around your baby.
• If your baby has another BRUE, and you think it may be life-threatening, call 911.
• If your baby has another BRUE, and it doesn’t seem life-threatening, call their doctor or health care provider.

Activity and Diet

You can feed your baby like normal unless their doctor or health care provider has new recommendations.

Follow-up

• Schedule a follow-up visit with your baby’s doctor or health care provider so they can be seen in the next 3 days.
• Take your baby to their well-baby visits to help keep them healthy and safe.
• Write down any questions as you think of them. Bring this list with you to any of your baby’s visits.

PDFs to Download: English

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