urgent Warning: Sepsis Cases Rising – Know the Life-Threatening Signs
London, UK – Health officials are urging the public to be vigilant for the signs of sepsis, a potentially fatal condition triggered by the body’s overwhelming response to infection. Cases are presenting rapidly, and early recognition is critical for survival.
Sepsis, frequently enough referred to as “the silent killer,” isn’t an infection itself, but a life-threatening reaction to an infection. When an infection takes hold, the immune system can go into overdrive, causing damage to the body’s own tissues and organs. Anyone can develop sepsis, nonetheless of age or underlying health conditions – it can arise from seemingly minor infections like chest infections, urinary tract infections, or even infected cuts. Prompt treatment with antibiotics and fluids dramatically improves outcomes, but prevention through vaccination and good hygiene remains the first line of defense.
Recognizing sepsis quickly is paramount, as the condition can escalate extremely rapidly. If you or someone in your care exhibits signs of infection and feels severely unwell, immediate medical attention is vital – call 999 or go to A&E.
Key warning signs in adults include:
* Slurred speech or confusion
* Extreme shivering, muscle pain, or fever
* Passing little or no urine
* Severe breathlessness
* Skin that feels mottled, bluish, or very cold
For children, babies, and young people, be alert for:
* Fast breathing or struggling to breathe
* Refusal to feed or eat
* Lack of wet nappies for 12 hours
* Unusual sleepiness, difficulty waking, confusion, or repeated vomiting
* A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed
If you are concerned about a possible infection, or notice any of these symptoms, contact 111 or your GP without delay. Early intervention can save lives.
