Sepsis becoming the silent killer in Irish hospitals

Sepsis is set to become the silent killer in Irish hospitals, HSE figures show.

A total of 3,219 people died from serious infectious diseases in our acute care settings in 2022, the latest year for which data is available.

The HSE added: “We express our sympathy to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives to sepsis. Sepsis requires urgent medical attention and can hide behind any infection, making it more difficult to detect at any age.

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On average, 13,000 cases are reported per year in Irish hospitals, although 15,000 people will be diagnosed with the condition in 2022.

Sepsis occurs when the body does not respond properly to an infection and the bacteria-fighting processes turn against themselves, causing organ damage. This can lead to what is called septic shock, and the dramatic drop in blood pressure can damage the lungs, kidneys, liver and other organs, often leading to death.

The HSE said one in five people who develop sepsis die from it. But because symptoms can often be mistaken for something else, he advises people who are infected and don’t get better to ask themselves if it could be sepsis.

Speaking at the launch of a new public information campaign, Dr Colm Henry, HSE clinical director, said: “Sepsis is a cause of serious illness, some of which is preventable.

“This campaign aims to help people recognize the signs and symptoms of sepsis, as we know that early treatment can lead to better outcomes.

“We continue to work with health service colleagues in providing sepsis training and resources for effective management of this potentially life-threatening condition. »

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