HSE urging awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis

Sepsis survivor and the HSE are urging awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis, with the HSE launching a new five-year sepsis strategy.

The HSE say that last year there were almost twelve thousand cases of sepsis and septic shock that took place in Irish hospitals; this is a rise in cases from 2024.

Sepsis can be a life-threatening complication that can hide behind infections. It doesn't matter what age the person is, and it can lead to a rapid deterioration in health. Thankfully, it is treatable if identified early.

The HSE is highlighting the story of 16-year-old Sophie Lanigan, who contracted sepsis after a bacterial infection. Her condition deteriorated, and she was rushed to CHI Temple Street in Dublin. The medication that was needed to save her life caused a lack of blood supply to her hands and feet; as a result, Sophie’s four limbs had to be amputated.

Sophie said: “I’ve had to relearn everything: writing, using my phone, brushing my hair. All the everyday things that you don’t think about. It’s been hard, but I’ve learned a lot, and with the support of my family and friends, I’ve learned to adapt. I visited Dáil Éireann recently to help raise awareness of sepsis and will continue to do so. Everybody should be aware of the signs and symptoms of sepsis.”

The HSE’s five-year strategy to tackle sepsis is grounded in Irish data and international best practice.

Helping to launch the report, Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, said: “Sepsis is one of the biggest challenges facing healthcare in Ireland, and across the world. I am delighted to launch the Action on Sepsis strategy and to recognise the work in improving standards in sepsis treatment, guidelines and in raising vital awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis both within the healthcare profession, and among the general public.”

Michael O’ Dwyer, Clinical Lead, HSE Sepsis Programme added: “Sepsis is an ever-evolving challenge in terms of recognition and treatment. We can always improve in our role as healthcare providers, and this strategy will help in that regard.

“Everybody has a role to play in combating sepsis and ensuring people are equipped to recognise the signs and symptoms, and when sepsis occurs, healthcare is the best it can be in terms of interventions and supports, both short and long term. We thank Sophie for sharing her journey with us and for all her work on raising awareness of sepsis.”

Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer, HSE added: “Sepsis is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitals and communities. Some cases are avoidable through earlier detection. Our Sepsis Strategy aims to improve awareness and timely action to enable earlier identification and treatment and lead to improved outcomes.”

Signs and symptoms of sepsis

Signs and symptoms of sepsis in adults (including maternity) are:

S - slurred speech, new confusion, too sick to communicate, drowsiness

E - extreme shivering, muscle aches, fever

P - has not passed urine in the last 12 hours and does not feel like passing urine

S - shortness of breath, lips tinged with blue, feels like your heart is racing, dizzy when you sit or stand

I - I feel like I'm going to die

S - skin mottled and discoloured, new rash that is still visible when pressed on with a clear glass (glass test).

The signs and symptoms of sepsis in children are: