Sepsis is a serious, life-threatening condition where the body responds to an infection in a way that causes damage to its own tissues and organs.

It can develop quickly and requires immediate medical attention. In children, sepsis may follow a bacterial infection such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, or meningitis.

Symptoms can vary with age, and early signs may be subtle.

Possible Signs in Babies and Young Children

• Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing

• Fits (seizures)

• Looks mottled, bluish, or very pale

• Very lethargic, difficult to wake, or unusually sleepy

• Abnormally cold to the touch

• Persistent vomiting, not feeding, or refusing food/drink

• Rash that does not fade when pressed

Possible Signs in Older Children

• Fast breathing or breathlessness

• Complaining of severe muscle pain

• Slurred speech or confusion

• Very sleepy, difficult to rouse

• Passing little or no urine

• Feeling unusually cold or shivery

• A new rash that does not fade when pressed

Treatment

1. Recognise the seriousness: If you suspect sepsis in a child, treat it as a medical emergency.

2. Call 999 immediately

   • State clearly you suspect sepsis.

   • Follow the emergency operator’s advice.

3. While waiting for help

   • Keep the child as comfortable as possible.

   • Monitor their breathing, level of response, and skin colour.

   • Be prepared to start CPR if they stop breathing or become unresponsive.

   • Do not give food or drink.

4. Reassure the child (if responsive)

   • Stay calm and explain what is happening in simple language.

Key Point for First Aiders

• Sepsis can develop quickly and unpredictably.

• Trust your instincts: if a child looks seriously unwell, seek emergency help without delay.

• Early recognition and calling 999 / 112 saves lives.