Anyone with an infection can get sepsis.
People at risk
People more at risk of an infection that could lead to sepsis, include:
- babies younger than 1 year
- people age 75 or older
- people who are frail
- people with diabetes
- people with a weak immune system
- people who are having chemotherapy treatment
- women who have just given birth or have recently been pregnant - including those who have had a miscarriage or abortion
- people who have recently had surgery
- people who have recently had a serious illness
- people taking medication that affects their immune system - ask your GP or pharmacist if you are unsure
- people who have chronic kidney, heart, liver or lung disease
Bacterial infections such as MRSA can be a risk factor for sepsis. Antibiotics often don't work with these bacteria. They are resistant to antibiotics.