In an effort to amplify Sepsis Awareness Month throughout September, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released Vital Signs Sepsis Fact Sheets. These resources highlight importance of prevention and recognition for sepsis, a complication caused by the body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection, which can ultimately lead to organ failure and death. The new CDC Vital Signs Fact Sheets provide evidence citing opportunities for providers to play a key role in sepsis prevention, including one evaluation identifying that 7 in 10 patients with sepsis had recently used health care services or had chronic diseases requiring frequent medical care.
The fact sheets include guidance for healthcare providers on preventing and recognizing sepsis as well as information on the critical role of state and local health departments in promoting sepsis prevention. Additionally, the CDC invites everyone to share their own experiences with sepsis on Twitter and Facebook using the hashtag #ThinkSepsis to raise awareness for this month and key public health issue. Visit the CDC’s Vital Signs website to find more information and materials for download.