Sepsis Awareness Month 2025

Sepsis is a life - threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs, with the immune system going into overdrive (UK Sepsis Trust, 2024). September is Sepsis Awareness Month, with World Sepsis Day taking place on the 13th September. Let’s get sepsis savvy together!

Sepsis always starts with an infection - however it remains unknown as to why some people’s respond abnormally, and others do not. When the signs and symptoms of Sepsis are missed, the progressive nature of the condition causes the body to go into shock, which can lead to damage to vital organs.

The signs and symptoms of sepsis can be hard to spot - and can appear like other illnesses such as Flu. You do not need to have all of these signs and symptoms, and they can occur in any order. First Aid for Sepsis involves recognising the signs and symptoms and seeking medical advice quickly. If you are worried - go to A & E or call 999 immediately.

Possible indicators are listed below:

Signs and Symptoms of Sepsis in Children and Adults (UK Sepsis Trust, 2024)

IN CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS

A baby or young child has any of these symptoms of sepsis (NHS, 2024)

• blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet

• a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, the same as meningitis

• difficulty breathing (you may notice grunting noises or their stomach sucking under their ribcage), breathlessness or breathing very fast

• a weak, high-pitched cry that's not like their normal cry

• not responding like they normally do, or not interested in feeding or normal activities

• being sleepier than normal or difficult to wake
  
  Anglia CPR will be supporting Sepsis Awareness Month through a range of activities.

• All First Aid Courses include recognition and treatment of a casualty suffering from shock. Throughout September, October and November - I will also be including how to recognise sepsis in all training courses.