WORLD SEPSIS DAY - SEPTEMBER 13TH 2019


On World Sepsis Day, September 13, the Global Sepsis Alliance(GSA) and the World Health Organization(WHO) are urging all health systems, policymakers, healthcare workers, and civilians to develop a concerted effort on sepsis prevention, diagnosis and management, to save lives.

Mortality rates for sepsis, one of the most widespread and deadly medical conditions in all parts of the world, have decreased by at least 20% through collective action  in Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as in  lower- and middle-income countries, such as Brazil.


Sepsis affects at least 30 million people annually worldwide, killing 7 to 9 million of them.


Often referred to as ‘blood poisoning’, sepsis is the life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs.  It is frequently confused with other conditions in its early stages, with delayed recognition of the signs and symptoms quickly leading to multi-system organ failure and, ultimately, death.


Every year on September 13, events combining medical education and information to raise awareness of sepsis among lay persons - including sport activities and fundraising events like “pink picnics” - are organised all over the world.  Last year, more than 60 countries participated.


ESICM supports the World Sepsis Day and encourages all intensivists and allied professionals to increase awareness and disseminate good practices and preventive behaviours regarding sepsis-related issues.


In 2017, ESICM participated in theSurviving Sepsis Campaign leading to the publication of International Guidelines for Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock available in different languages. In 2018, the Society released The Surviving Sepsis Campaign Bundle.  An update of the adult Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines will be completed in collaboration with the GUIDE group in 2020.


Jozef Kesecioglu
ESICM President





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