Infant mortality decreased in Argentina during the government of Javier Milei

The infant mortality rate in Argentina decreased during 2025 under the presidency of Javier Milei, dropping from 8.5 to 8 deaths per 1,000 live births, according to preliminary data released this Wednesday by the Ministry of Health of the Nation. The reduction of 0.5 points compared to 2024 was presented during a new meeting of the Federal Health Council (COFESA), led by Minister Mario Lugones and with the participation of health authorities from all provinces and the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires.

According to information prepared by the Directorate of Statistics and Health Information (DEIS), 15 provinces recorded a decrease in their infant mortality rates during 2025, while eight others reported increases and the City of Buenos Aires maintained its values. The results reflect an improvement in the national indicator after the increase recorded in 2024, when 3,513 deaths of children under one year were counted out of a total of 413,135 live births.

The report also revealed that the number of births continued to decline, although at a more moderate pace. During 2025, there were 401,245 live births, compared to 413,135 the previous year, representing an annual decline of nearly 3%. The downward trend in birth rates continued, although with a slowdown compared to previous years. In parallel, the director of the DEIS, Carlos Guevel, highlighted a reduction in adolescent pregnancies and an increase in premature births.

The data was presented during a meeting aimed at coordinating health policies between the national government and various jurisdictions. "Having reliable and quality information is essential to understand the health situation of the country", stated Minister Lugones, who emphasized the importance of having updated statistics to guide decisions in the health system. The official stressed the role of COFESA as a space for coordination between national and provincial authorities.

On the other hand, the Ministry of Health reported that the complete document of vital statistics for 2025 has not yet been published, due to delays from some provinces in submitting information on adult mortality. However, Guevel explained that during October, the information related to births and infant deaths was consolidated, allowing for the advance of the main results of the period.

During the meeting, the authorities also announced new health measures, including the creation of a Federal Coordination Unit for Health Emergencies and the implementation of tools to strengthen epidemiological surveillance of dengue. Additionally, it was reported a 241.65% increase in coverage modules for disability benefits from the Federal Program Incluir Salud. The day concluded with the presentation of other initiatives related to vaccination, transplants, and preparation for potential climate emergencies.