Sepsis arises when the body’s response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs. It may lead to shock, multi-organ failure, and death – especially if not recognized early and treated promptly. Sepsis is the final common pathway to death from most infectious diseases worldwide, including viral infections such as SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19.
Sepsis – A global Health Crisis
Sepsis is a global health crisis.
- It affects between 47 and 50 million people every year, at least 11 million die – one death every 2.8 seconds.
- 20% of all deaths worldwide are associated with sepsis.
- Depending on country, mortality varies between 15 and more than 50 %.
- Many surviving patients suffer from the consequences of sepsis for the rest of their lives.
Sepsis – Common Causes
Most types of microorganisms can cause sepsis, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. However, it may also be caused by infections with seasonal influenza viruses, dengue viruses, and highly transmissible pathogens of public health concern; such as avian and swine influenza viruses, Ebola, and yellow fever viruses.
Sepsis often presents as the clinical deterioration of common and preventable infections such as those of the respiratory, gastrointestinal and urinary tract, or of wounds and skin. Sepsis is frequently under-diagnosed at an early stage – when it still is potentially reversible.
Sepsis – Symptoms
The following symptoms might indicate sepsis:
- Slurred speech or confusion
- Extreme shivering or muscle pain, fever
- Passing no urine all day
- Severe breathlessness
- It feels like you’re going to die
- Skin mottled or discoloured
Prevent Sepsis
Sepsis is the number one cause of preventable death worldwide. The best way to prevent sepsis is to prevent infection in the first place, which can be done by:
- Vaccination
- Clean water
- Hand hygiene
- Prevent hospital-acquired infections (HAIs)
- Safe childbirth
- Awareness
For more information visit WSD 2026 — World Sepsis Day.
