September is “Sepsis Awareness Month”

In 2011, Sepsis Alliance designated September as "Sepsis Awareness Month", a special time of the year dedicated at raising awareness of sepsis, a life-threatening condition that is the leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals.

Sepsis occurs when the body has and overwhelming response to an infection. The infection can originate anywhere in the body and can cause tissue damage, organ failure, and potentially death. Any infection can lead to sepsis, including bacterial, viral, and fungal. The flu, COVID-19, a skin scratch, and even a tooth infection can lead to sepsis. That's why it's so important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of sepsis.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (*), at least 1.7 million adults in the United States develop sepsis, and of these, nearly 350,000 died as a result. 1 in 3 people who die in a hospital is due to sepsis, however, in 87% of cases, the infection begins before the patient goes to the hospital.

Learn  more about sepsis with Dr. Vik Rajan; ER Doctor and Director of Utilization Review and Medical Services for Emergency Hospital Systems

What is sepsis and how serious is it?

Sepsis is a very serious, life-threatening condition. It occurs as a result of an infection that can start anywhere in the body causing an extreme reaction in the organism. Most often, the infection begins in the urinary or digestive tract, skin, or lungs.

Who is most at risk for sepsis?

Any infection can become in sepsis. We cannot predict who may or may not develop sepsis, however, some people are at higher risk. According to the CDC (*), adults over the age of 65 and children under 1 are most vulnerable. Similarly, people who have weakened immune systems, chronic medical conditions, and those who have recovered from sepsis are at higher risk.

What are the signs and symptoms of sepsis?

There are some signs and symptoms that we should be alert for. Symptoms usually include: mental confusion, chills, fever, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, among others. Only a healthcare professional can diagnose and confirm sepsis, and they do so by performing a series of tests to check for tissue damage and organ failure.

If you see any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention inmediately.  Early detection and treatment is fundamental and can mark the difference between life and death.

What is the treatment for sepsis?

The treatment usually requires intensive care, antibiotics and fluids. It also required an ongoing monitoring of vital signs. Sometimes surgery is required to remove tissue damaged by the infection. The treatment with antibiotics is critical, however, the patient could develop resistance, which can make the condition more serious.

What we can do to prevent sepsis?

The first thing to do is prevent infections and for that, it is essential to stay up to date on vaccinations. It is also important to control and maintain good care of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, liver and kidney diseases.The CDC also recommendeds washing hands often and keeping wounds clean and covered until they heal.

And also very important, if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned, seek immediate medical attention. Early detection and treatment of sepsis is fundamental.

(*) Content Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What is sepsis?

Watch the  Video on "What is Sepsis"

Presented by the  Sepsis Alliance

For more information on sepsis,  visit:

Centers of Disease Control and Prevention/sepsis

Sepsis Alliance

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