HSE encourages people to become aware of signs and symptoms on World Sepsis Day

According to the HSE National Sepsis Report 2023, there were 15,722 cases of sepsis and septic shock diagnosed in hospitals last year. However, while there has been a rise in cases of sepsis, the mortality rate has decreased (19.3%) when compared with the previous year (21.8%).

Today (Friday, 13 September) marks World Sepsis Day and the HSE is encouraging everybody to be aware of the signs and symptoms of sepsis.

Sepsis 2023 Report Key Findings

• 64% of people who died from sepsis were aged 75 or over
• Over 27% of sepsis patients were admitted to critical care beds
• 260 cases of pregnancy-related sepsis (no deaths)
• 2,891 cases in children between 2020 – 2023 of whom 117 died

The outcomes of the national report are due to the quality improvement initiatives in hospitals, helping to reduce sepsis-associated deaths.

Speaking on World Sepsis Day, Dr Michael O’ Dwyer, Clinical Lead, HSE Sepsis Programme says: “We are encouraging everybody to make themselves familiar with the signs and symptoms of sepsis. We know that, as well as prevention measures, early detection and treatment saves lives. That is why it is so important to be aware and know the signs.

“Sepsis can hide behind any infection and can lead to a rapid deterioration in health. Research has found that symptoms of sepsis are easy to dismiss, miss or mistake for something else. So if you suspect you or someone you know has sepsis, seek urgent medical care and always ask, ‘Could it be Sepsis?’”

Improving knowledge around the signs and symptoms of sepsis is a key priority of the HSE Sepsis Programme, through national public information campaigns, community activities and ongoing engagement and education with health and social care staff.

Signs and symptoms of sepsis in adults (including maternity) are:

S - Slurred speech, new confusion, too sick to communicate, drowsiness.

E - Extreme shivering, muscle aches, fever.

P - Has not passed urine in the last 12 hours and does not feel like passing urine.

S - Shortness of breath, lips tinged with blue, feels like your heart is racing, dizzy when you sit or stand.

I - I feel like I'm going to die.

S - Skin mottled and discoloured, new rash that is still visible when pressed on with a clear glass (glass test).

The signs and symptoms of sepsis in children are:

• Very fast breathing
• Fits or convulsions
• Mottled skin (irregular colour) bluish or pale
• A rash that does not fade when you press it
• Unusually sleepy and difficult to wake
• Unusually cold when you touch them
• Has had no pee for more than 12 hours.