STAFF from across Hywel Dda Health Board are once again joining the global effort to raise awareness of a life-threatening illness on World Sepsis Day today.

Sepsis is a deadly reaction to infection in any part of the body. The most common sites of infection leading to sepsis are the lungs, urinary tract, abdomen and pelvis. It remains the number one preventable cause of death in hospital, although 70 per cent of sepsis starts in the community.

It is estimated to be responsible for 44,000 deaths annually in the UK and causes more deaths than breast, bowel and prostate cancer combined. This equates to approximately 2,200 people in Wales each year which represents approximately 13 per cent of all hospital deaths.

Dr Phil Kloer, medical director at Hywel Dda, said: “If sepsis isn’t recognised or treated promptly, it can be fatal. Untreated, sepsis usually leads to multiple organ failure.

"However, the worst effects of sepsis can be countered with simple treatments, provided it is identified quickly. The sooner treatment is started the lower the risk of death and the harmful effects of sepsis can be reduced.”

Anyone who has, or has recently had a fever or a very low temperature and who develops any of the following symptoms, should seek medical advice without delay: slurred speech, or confusion; extreme shivering or muscle pain; passing no urine (in 18 hours or a day); severe breathlessness; feelings of severe discomfort; kin that is mottled, bluish or very pale.