RIGHT AWAY

OUTLOOK/PROGNOSIS

Sepsis is often life-threatening, especially in people with a weak immune system or a longterm (chronic) illness.

Damage caused by a decrease in blood flow to vital organs such as the brain, heart and kidneys may take time to improve. There may be long-term problems with these organs.

While many think of sepsis as rare or unlikely, anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection, including COVID-19, can lead to sepsis.*

Sepsis can’t be spread to other people. However, an infection can lead to sepsis, and some infections can be spread to other people.

Prevention

The risk of sepsis can be reduced by getting all recommended vaccines. Careful hand washing can help prevent hospital-acquired infections that lead to sepsis.

Prompt removal of urinary catheters and IV lines when they are no longer needed can also help prevent infections that lead to sepsis.

My sepsis story started with childbirth.

After I got home from giving birth, I wasn't feeling well. I assumed it was normal, but I kept feeling worse. My husband had heard of maternal sepsis so he called 911. He saved my life.

*According to the Centers for Disease Control

**Courtesy of Sepsis Alliance