Get Ahead of Sepsis
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is life-threatening, and without timely treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death. Sepsis happens when an infection you already have – in your skin, lungs, urinary tract, or somewhere else – triggers a chain reaction throughout your body.
Are You at Risk?
Anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection can lead to sepsis. People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer and kidney disease, are at a higher risk of developing infections which can lead to sepsis. Sepsis also more commonly occurs in:
- Adults 65 or older
- People with weakened immune systems
- Children younger than one
The most frequently identified germs that cause infections that can develop into sepsis include Staphylococcus aureus (staph), Escherichia coli (E. coli) and some types of Streptococcus.
Get ahead of sepsis by following the tips below, courtesy of the CDC. To learn more about sepsis and how to prevent infections, visit the CDC online.
