Sepsis Smart

Sepsis can damage the body very quickly and even cause death - but it is treatable if caught early. If you suspect sepsis, get help fast! Learn more at mass.gov/sepsis and share the message to be

A doctor can treat sepsis, but it needs to be done quickly. The risk of serious harm from sepsis increases with every hour that passes before treatment begins. Learn more at mass.gov/sepsis.

If an infection doesn’t get better and keeps getting worse, it could turn into a condition called sepsis. Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. It is sometimes called ‘septic shock.’ Learn more at mass.gov/sepsis.

Sepsis can strike anyone at any time, but some segments of the population are more at risk that others. People over the age of 65, particularly those who have health issues, make up 65% of sepsis cases in the hospitals. Learn more about sepsis at mass.gov/sepsis.

Maternal sepsis is the second leading cause of maternal death in the United States. Those who survive are often left with severe physical, emotional and psychological trauma. To reduce its devastating impact on the lives of birthing people and their families, End Sepsis, The Legacy of Rory Staunton has developed a comprehensive campaign to raise awareness and help keep expecting parents safe.

Today, take a moment and help spread the word about the symptoms of sepsis. Know the signs. Act in time. Be . Learn more at mass.gov/sepsis.

Every two minutes, someone dies from in the United States. By noticing the signs of sepsis and getting treatment fast, people can reduce their chances that sepsis will seriously harm their health. Learn more at mass.gov/sepsis.

When a family member or friend becomes ill with sepsis, it can be a scary time. You may not know what sepsis is or how to help your loved one. The Sepsis Alliance offers resources that may help you navigate this complex and difficult journey.

Caregivers When your loved one becomes ill with sepsis, it can be a scary time - one that most people aren’t prepared for. You may not know what...

In Massachusetts, sepsis is a top reason why people end up in the hospital. Together, we can learn about sepsis and help save lives. Find out more at mass.gov/sepsis.

Bela Maranhas broke her ankle while she was on a neighborhood walk near her home north of Boston. She went to the hospital for surgery and the next day she woke up with a sore throat. Within 24 hours she also had a fever, chest pain and shortness of breath.

“It started with a cough and it just went wild,” she said. “Within a few days, I had to be moved to the ICU. The doctors couldn’t keep me alive without intubation.”

Read Bela's story and what she wants everyone to know about sepsis:

How this sepsis survivor nearly lost her life from an infection Bela Maranhas shares her experience with the life-threatening condition

Post-sepsis syndrome affects nearly half of all sepsis survivors, especially those who were admitted to the intensive care unit of a hospital. End Sepsis, The Legacy of Rory Staunton explains the symptoms, causes and risk factors for post-sepsis syndrome on their website:

Post Sepsis Syndrome - End Sepsis Post-sepsis syndrome (PSS) can occur after a person recovers from sepsis and can cause physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that can last for months or years. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, joint pain, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. PSS is bel...

Knowing the signs of sepsis will help make sure you get treatment quickly and reduce your chances of serious illness. If you or someone you love is showing symptoms of sepsis, get medical help fast. Learn more at mass.gov/sepsis.

Not all infections can be prevented and as a result, not all cases of sepsis can be prevented. However, taking care of chronic conditions, getting recommended vaccines and practicing good hygiene can help. Learn more at mass.gov/sepsis.