Sepsis awareness could save a life. The HSE has launched a new five-year plan to improve prevention, recognition, treatment and long-term support for people affected by sepsis, while survivor Sophie Lanigan is urging families across Ireland to learn the warning signs.
Sophie, who was 16 when she developed sepsis after a bacterial infection in December 2022, deteriorated rapidly within 24 hours. She was transferred to Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, where she received blood transfusions and was placed on a ventilator. Although treatment saved her life, reduced blood supply to her hands and feet led to the amputation of all four limbs in January 2023.
Since then, Sophie has had to relearn everyday tasks, including writing, using a phone and brushing her hair. She has also become a prominent advocate for sepsis awareness, including through a recent visit to Dáil Éireann.
HSE Action on Sepsis 2026–2030 strategy
The HSE’s Action on Sepsis 2026–2030 strategy was launched during September’s Sepsis Awareness Month. It is based on Irish data and international best practice and builds on the work of the National Clinical Programme for Sepsis, established in 2014.
The five-year strategy focuses on:
- Preventing sepsis where possible
- Earlier recognition and improved treatment
- Better support for sepsis survivors
- Education, knowledge and research
- Stronger clinical governance and standards
Almost 12,000 cases of sepsis and septic shock were recorded in Irish hospitals last year, with a reported mortality rate of 21.2%. Globally, sepsis is estimated to contribute to 20% of deaths. The HSE says earlier detection and urgent treatment can improve outcomes.
Sepsis signs and symptoms to recognise
Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening reaction to an infection. It can affect people of any age and may cause rapid deterioration. Adults should seek urgent medical attention if they experience warning signs including:
- Slurred speech, confusion, drowsiness or difficulty communicating
- Extreme shivering, muscle pain or fever
- No urine for 12 hours, or no urge to urinate
- Shortness of breath, blue-tinged lips, dizziness or a racing heart
- A feeling that they are going to die
- Mottled or discoloured skin, or a rash that does not fade under pressure
Children may show very fast breathing, seizures, pale or bluish mottled skin, an unfading rash, unusual sleepiness, cold skin or no urine for more than 12 hours.
If sepsis is suspected, seek urgent medical care and ask: “Could it be sepsis?” Early action matters because untreated sepsis can cause organ failure and death.
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A shared responsibility for sepsis awareness
Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said sepsis remains a major challenge in Ireland and internationally, highlighting the importance of awareness among healthcare professionals and the public. HSE clinical leaders also emphasised that everyone has a role in recognising symptoms, seeking help promptly and supporting survivors over the long term.
Sophie’s experience demonstrates how quickly an infection can become life-threatening. The clearest takeaway from the new strategy is simple: know the signs, trust your instincts and ask whether it could be sepsis when someone becomes seriously unwell.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE
