Preventing Infections That Can Lead to Sepsis

Key points

  • You can take specific steps to reduce your risk of sepsis.

Prevention steps and strategies

Prevent infections

Talk to a healthcare provider about steps you can take to prevent infections that can lead to sepsis, including:

  • Take good care of chronic conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer and kidney disease.
  • Get recommended vaccines, since vaccinations can prevent or reduce the severity of some infections that can lead to sepsis.

Practice good hygiene

Know the signs and symptoms of sepsis

A person with sepsis might have one or more of the following signs or symptoms:

  • Clammy or sweaty skin
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Extreme pain or discomfort
  • Fever, shivering or feeling very cold
  • High heart rate or weak pulse
  • Shortness of breath

Healthcare providers should immediately evaluate and treat people who might have sepsis.

Act fast

Sepsis is a medical emergency. If you or your loved one has an infection that's not getting better or is getting worse, act fast. Get medical care immediately. Ask a healthcare provider, "Could this infection be leading to sepsis?" and if you should go to the emergency room.

Preventing infections for people with cancer

  • Avoid crowded places and people who are sick.
  • Carefully wash raw fruits and vegetables. Talk with your doctor about whether you should follow any dietary restrictions.
  • Clean your teeth and gums with a soft toothbrush.
  • Cook meat and eggs all the way through to kill any germs.
  • Do not share food, drink cups, utensils or other personal items, such as toothbrushes.
  • Keep your hands clean and ask others around you to do the same.
  • Protect your skin from direct contact with pet bodily waste (urine or feces) by wearing vinyl or household cleaning gloves when cleaning up after your pet. Wash your hands immediately afterward.
  • Take a bath or shower every day (unless told otherwise).
  • Talk to your doctor about getting a flu shot or other vaccinations.
  • Talk to your doctor about whether there are activities you should avoid due to the risk of infection.
  • Use a mouthwash to prevent mouth sores (if your doctor recommends one).
  • Use an unscented lotion to try to keep your skin from getting dry or cracked.

Resources

Health Care Provider Speaking with a Patient and looking at a Brochure
Get Ahead of Sepsis Materials for Patients
Download or order materials to educate yourself and your loved ones about sepsis.
People at Increased Risk for Sepsis
Having cancer and undergoing certain treatments for cancer can put you at higher risk for developing...
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Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)