AMA (NSW) welcomes efforts to raise awareness about sepsis

AMA (NSW) President, Dr Saxon Smith, says Sepsis Awareness Month is a good reminder of this deadly condition and the importance for doctors to be aware of it.

“Sepsis can affect anyone but the very old, very young, and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk.

“It is a potentially deadly medical emergency and early diagnosis and treatment are critical in improving people’s chances at recovery,” Dr Smith said.

“Sepsis sometimes occurs as the result of an infection and can lead to multiple organ failure.

“It is an immune system response rather than an infection itself, so early detection is vital.

“I am grateful to groups like the Clinical Excellence Commission who are helping keep sepsis in the front of doctors’ minds,” Dr Smith said.

“The infection that triggers the sepsis immune system reaction can be from any source – bacteria, virus or fungus.

“This is why it’s important for patients to be aware of sepsis as well and to take care to avoid infection – or spreading infection to people they know have compromised immune systems.

“If you are sick and are considering seeing a relative in hospital, stay home,” Dr Smith said.

“Pneumonia is a common trigger for sepsis and being immunised against the flu can help people avoid pneumonia.

“Vaccination is an easy way you can protect yourself from particular infections and I would encourage everyone to ensure their immunisations are up to date,” Dr Smith said.

Media contact: Lachlan Jones (02) 9902 8113 / 0419 402 955