What is sepsis?
Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection. The body's immune response can damage its own tissues and organs, potentially leading to organ failure and death if it is not recognised and treated quickly.
Did you know?
- Sepsis can affect anyone, but some people are at greater risk, including babies and young children, older people, pregnant people and those with underlying health conditions.
- Sepsis is always caused by an infection.
- Around 80% of sepsis cases occur outside of hospital.
- Globally, sepsis has been associated with approximately 1 in 5 deaths.
- Sepsis survivors can experience long-term physical and psychological effects.
Know the signs
Symptoms of sepsis can include:
- Fever or feeling very cold
- Fast breathing or shortness of breath
- A fast heart rate
- Confusion, slurred speech or unusual drowsiness
- Severe pain or extreme discomfort
- Feeling seriously unwell
Sepsis is a medical emergency. If you or someone else is seriously unwell and you are concerned about sepsis, seek urgent medical help.
ALL INFORMATION FROM WORLDSEPSISDAY & WORLDHEALTHORGANIZATION