Pediatric Sepsis

Sepsis is a serious medical condition that happens when the body has an overwhelming response to an infection. Instead of fighting off the infection in a controlled way, the immune system becomes overactive and starts to damage the body’s own organs and tissues.

In children, sepsis can develop quickly and may start from a simple infection such as a cold, flu, urinary tract infection, or skin infection. While most infections in children are mild and get better with basic care, some can trigger sepsis, which can lead to severe complications if not recognized and treated early.

Sepsis is a medical emergency. It requires prompt hospital care to prevent organ failure and save lives. Fortunately, with early diagnosis and treatment, most children recover fully.

Sepsis can be hard to recognize at first because its early symptoms often look like those of many other common illnesses. However, there are several warning signs parents and caregivers should know:

• High fever (over 38.5°C / 101.3°F) or abnormally low temperature
• Fast breathing or difficulty breathing
• Unusual sleepiness, drowsiness, or difficulty waking up
• Pale, bluish, or mottled skin
• Cold hands or feet
• Weak pulse
• Fast heart rate
• Decreased appetite or refusal to eat
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Less urine output than usual (fewer wet diapers or bathroom trips)
• Irritability, confusion, or changes in behavior

In babies and young children, signs of serious illness can be subtle. 

Sepsis is caused by an infection that spreads through the body and causes a harmful immune response. The infection can be bacterial, viral, or, less commonly, fungal. In many cases, the original infection may not seem serious at first. 

Common sources of infection in children that can lead to sepsis include:

• Respiratory infections (like pneumonia or bronchitis)
• Urinary tract infections
• Bone or joint infections
• Skin infections (such as cellulitis)
• Infections after surgery or injury

Children who are more likely to develop sepsis include:

• Newborns and infants (especially those younger than 3 months)
• Children with weakened immune systems (due to cancer treatment, immune disorders, or organ transplants)
• Children with chronic illnesses (like heart or kidney disease)
• Children with medical devices (such as central lines or feeding tubes)
• Children who have recently had surgery or serious injuries

While not all cases of sepsis can be prevented, there are important steps parents and caregivers can take to reduce the risk:

• Keep up with vaccinations, including those for influenza, pneumococcus, meningococcus, and Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib)
• Seek medical attention for infections that are not improving or seem to be getting worse
• Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and keeping wounds clean
• Follow medical advice for children with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems
• Watch for early warning signs of serious illness and trust your instincts