Symptoms - Sepsis

Sepsis is a serious condition that can be life-threatening and may be difficult to identify. It presents with a variety of symptoms, which can resemble those of other illnesses, such as flu or a chest infection. If you suspect that you or someone in your care is showing signs of sepsis, it’s essential to call 999 or visit A&E without delay. Trust your instincts. If a baby or young child exhibits any of the following symptoms of sepsis:

Common symptoms:

Blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet

A rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, the same as meningitis

Difficulty breathing (you may notice grunting noises or their stomach sucking under their ribcage), breathlessness or breathing very fast

A weak, high-pitched cry that's not like their normal cry

Not responding like they normally do, or not interested in feeding or normal activities

Being sleepier than normal or difficult to wake

Acting confused, slurred speech or not making sense

Difficulty breathing, breathlessness or breathing very fast

Feels very unwell or like there's something seriously wrong

Has not had a pee all day (for adults and older children) or in the last 12 hours (for babies and young children)

Keeps vomiting and cannot keep any food or milk down (for babies and young children)