One in Five deaths around the world due to Sepsis

11 million people around the world are dying from sepsis a year - one in five of all deaths - more than are killed by cancer.The overwhelming majority of cases (85%) are in low- and middle- income countries. Children were most at risk with four in 10 cases in children under the age of five. But there are around 48,000 deaths from sepsis in the UK each year.

Sepsis also known as blood poisoning, is caused by the immune system going into over-drive. Instead of just fighting an infection, it starts attacking other parts of the body too.Ultimately it causes organ failure. Even survivors can be left with long-term damage and disability.

Bacteria and viruses that cause diarrhoeal infections or lung diseases are the leading triggers of sepsis.Thus reducing the number of infections can reduce the number of cases of sepsis. For many countries, this means good sanitation, clean water and access to vaccines. And early treatment with antibiotics or anti-virals to clear an infection can make a massive difference.

Symptoms of sepsis:

In adults:

§  slurred speech

§  extreme shivering or muscle pain

§  passing no urine in a day

§  severe breathlessness

§  high heart rate and high or low body temperature

§  skin mottled or discoloured

In children:

§  a mottled, bluish or pale appearance

§  very lethargic or difficult to wake

§  abnormally cold to touch

§  breathing very fast

§  a rash that does not fade when you press it

§  a seizure or convulsion