The symptoms of sepsis are caused by germs and the body’s own natural defense system.  Symptoms include:

• Fever or low body temperature (hypothermia)
• Fast heart rate
• Fast breathing
• Trouble breathing
• Feeling tired
• Fussy / irritable or confused
• Decreased appetite
• Decreased urine output
• Warm flushed skin, or cool mottled skin

Call your doctor right away if one of these statements describes your child:

• Has three or more of the symptoms (listed above) and you believe there is an infection present
• Had a recent infection and now has three or more of the symptoms
• Had a recent medical procedure or surgery and now has three or more of the symptoms 

It is important to call your doctor right away. Treatment for sepsis needs to begin at once.

A person with sepsis will need to stay in the hospital for treatment, which includes IV antibiotics and fluids.

There are ways to help prevent the spread of germs during a hospital stay:

• Wash your hands when you enter and leave your child’s room.
• Limit visitors, especially other children.
• You may have to wear gown, gloves and a mask when going into your child’s room to keep the infection from spreading.
• Make sure your child drinks fluids throughout the day.