31st October 2026

Sepsis

Sepsis is a serious reaction to an infection that can be life-threatening. It develops very quickly and needs urgent treatment in hospital.

Symptoms of sepsis in babies and children include:

difficulty breathing or breathing very fast
having a fit (seizure)
a high or low temperature – feeling very hot or cold when you touch them
blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on black or brown skin this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
a rash that does not fade when you press it – this type of rash is rare in sepsis, but it may be a symptom of meningitis
being sleepier than normal or difficult to wake
not peeing in the last 12 hours (for babies and children under 5 years), or not peeing all day (for children 5 years and over) – you can check a baby's nappy to see if it's dry

Babies and children under 5 years may also not be interested in feeding or they may keep being sick (vomiting).

Common symptoms of sepsis in adults include:

confusion or slurred speech
uncontrollable shivering
muscle pain
difficulty breathing
blue, pale, grey or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on black or brown skin this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
a high or low temperature – a high temperature is less common in older adults
not peeing all day or peeing very little in the past 18 hours

Help and support for sepsis

Many people die from sepsis in the UK each year. For those who survive, the long-term effects can be both physical and emotional.

The UK Sepsis Trust provides help and support for anyone affected by sepsis, including family, friends and carers.

Find more information at ➡️Sepsis - NHS