13 September 2025 marks World Sepsis Day. It raises awareness of the condition which has devastating consequences for individuals and their families, causing 11 million deaths worldwide each year, on average.
Sepsis happens when the body’s response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs, which can then lead to shock or multi-organ failure.
Our Medical Negligence team see first-hand the impact that sepsis can have. Often described as the body’s extreme response to an infection, sepsis can be life-threatening if not recognised and treated quickly.
According to the UK Sepsis Trust, sepsis affects around 245,000 people in the UK each year, leading to approximately 48,000 deaths. It is the number one cause of deaths in hospitals and up to 50% of sepsis survivors suffer long term physical or psychological effects. Sepsis is a medical emergency, where 40% of cases are in children under 5 years old.
Understanding the signs of sepsis can be lifesaving. They can include:
- Slurred speech or confusion
- Extreme shivering or muscle pain
- Passing no urine in a day
- Severe breathlessness
- Skin that is mottled, bluish or very pale
Sepsis can develop rapidly, and the consequences are often life-changing for patients and their loved ones. By highlighting World Sepsis Day, we want to raise awareness and drive home the importance of early medical intervention and treatment – and to show our support for those affected.
Clare Langford
Head of Medical Negligence
This information is for guidance purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. We recommend you seek legal advice before acting on any information given.
