Pediatric sepsis is the number one killer of children and infants worldwide. In the United States, over 75,000 children will develop sepsis and over 7,000 will die. The mortality rate for pediatric sepsis is higher than for pediatric cancer.

Symptoms.
Sepsis occurs as the result of an infection. There is no one symptom and sometimes children and adults may not even know they have an infection. Early sepsis can mimic many other conditions as symptoms include fever and elevated heart and respiratory rates. If you suspect sepsis, seek immediate medical assistance and ask, “Could it be sepsis?”:

• Fever
• Fast breathing (your child may complain that his/her heart is racing)
• Vomiting
• Abnormally cold to touch
• A rash that does not fade when you press it
• Lethargic, irritated, sleepy or difficult to wake
• Looks bluish, mottled or has very pale skin
• Has a fit or convulsion
• Severe muscle pain, or pain in the joints of the wrist, elbows, back, knees, hips, and ankles

A child under five years of age who is:

• Uninterested in feeding
• Vomiting
• Has not passed urine for 12 hours

Causes.
Sepsis is caused by infection, most commonly bacterial infections. Cuts and scrapes, urinary tract infections, inner ear infections, pneumonia and post-operative infections can all lead to sepsis. The best way to prevent sepsis is to prevent infections.

Risk Factors.
Sepsis can impact anyone–young or old, sick or healthy. Those with an increased risk of infection include:

• Children with chronic illness
• Children with weakened immune systems
• Very young children and babies who don’t have fully developed immune systems

Diagnosis.
A diagnosis of sepsis is made following a physical evaluation and an examination of the patient’s medical history. To confirm a sepsis diagnosis, a doctor will order blood tests. Treatment for sepsis must be provided in a hospital setting.

Treatment.
Time is a critical factor for sepsis patients. Research has shown that every hour of delay in treatment increases mortality by eight percent.  If sepsis is suspected, doctors may start administering antibiotics immediately before the diagnosis is confirmed. The treatment for sepsis consists of:

• Antibiotics are usually administered intravenously
• IV Fluids

Prevention.
As sepsis results from an infection, the most important action is preventing infection.  Infections and sepsis can be prevented by:

• Staying up to date on vaccinations
• Good hygiene, including regular hand washing
• Caring for cuts and scrapes by washing and covering even minor wounds. Keep all wounds clean. Bacteria can enter the body through a small cut, scrape, or surgical incision. Be watchful.
• Urinary tract infections, ear infections, pneumonia and other illnesses can lead to sepsis.

Neonatal Sepsis