Sepsis is a major public health crisis. Every year, there are nearly 50 million cases and 11 million deaths worldwide, accounting for nearly one-fifth of global mortality.
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis is an overwhelming and dysregulated immune response to an infection (whether bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic). This uncontrolled reaction can cause one or more organs to fail, posing an immediate threat to life.
While sepsis can affect anyone at any age, certain populations are at a higher risk, including newborns, children, pregnant women, the elderly, as well as immunocompromised patients or those with chronic conditions. Respiratory and digestive tract infections are among the most frequent causes.
Speed of care is vital. Treatment relies primarily on the rapid administration of antibiotics, source control of the infection, and vital function support (such as oxygenation, blood circulation, and respiratory support).
Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve survival rates. Despite this, sepsis can lead to long-lasting complications and long-term sequelae for many survivors. This is why infection prevention, early screening, and the enhancement of medical treatments represent major public health priorities.
With global population growth and an aging society, the number of sepsis cases could double by 2050.
Video produced by the Global Sepsis Alliance.