World Sepsis Day, set to take place on 13 September 2025, serves as a vital platform for raising global awareness about the dangers of sepsis and the life-saving actions that can be taken. The day’s theme, “5 Facts × 5 Actions,” highlights critical information and encourages immediate, impactful responses.
At Enable Law, we receive many enquiries from individuals and families who are looking to claim compensation arising from injuries caused by sepsis. Sepsis can affect anyone at any time, and early intervention is critical for good clinical outcomes.
5 Facts x 5 Actions to prevent and fight sepsis
Sepsis is a devastating condition, responsible for at least 11 million deaths globally each year, making it the top cause of preventable death worldwide. Despite this, it remains a dangerously misunderstood disease, under-recognised by the public and healthcare professionals alike. Its potentially rapid onset means that it can become fatal in a matter of hours if not treated promptly, underscoring the urgency for immediate action. While 40% of cases involve children under five, sepsis can strike anyone, anywhere, at any age.
To combat this, individuals are urged to learn the signs, such as severe shivering, muscle pain, extreme breathlessness, or a racing heartbeat. If sepsis is suspected, it is critical to act fast and seek urgent medical attention immediately. Preventing infections through good hygiene and vaccination is another key action. Furthermore, spreading awareness through social media, events, or simple conversations can inform others about the disease. Finally, supporting initiatives that aim to raise awareness and improve outcomes for patients is a crucial step in the global fight against sepsis.
Making a claim following a preventable sepsis loss of a loved one
Johnathan Steventon-Kiy, medical negligence solicitor and sepsis claim specialist recently successfully pursued a claim for compensation for the widow of man who died due to a delayed diagnosis and treatment of sepsis. The man had sustained an injury to his hand several days before his admission to hospital. Whilst the injury did not trouble him at the time, several days later, he reported significant pain his hand which radiated up his arm. His arm was very red and appeared visibly sore. He was also known to have a compromised immune system due to a previous illness. He visited hospital but his symptoms were dismissed, sepsis was not considered, and he was sent home. Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated, and he was rushed to hospital again by ambulance. He was quickly diagnosed with sepsis and treatment was started. Sadly, his condition did not improve and despite having his arm amputated, he did not recover and subsequently died.
Following his death, his widow contacted Johnathan for advice about a claim for compensation. With the assistance of expert evidence, Johnathan was able to prove that sepsis should have been considered and treated immediately. Had sepsis been considered and treated earlier, it was more likely than not that his condition would have been treatable, and it was likely that he would have survived. Johnathan was able to obtain compensation for the man’s widow.
The UK Sepsis Trust
Whilst this is a worldwide awareness day, The UK Sepsis Trust are actively promoting the day by supporting awareness events in Parliament and providing resources for the public. Johnathan and Enable Law are proud to work with the UK Sepsis Trust to raise awareness of the dangers of sepsis and assist in spreading awareness.
How can we help?
If you, or some you know, has suffered a delay in diagnosis and treatment of sepsis, we can assist. Cases where compensation may be due include:
- Missed or delays in the diagnosis of sepsis leading to a worsening of the condition.
- Failure to provide treatment quickly after a diagnosis of sepsis.
- Death due to missed diagnosis or failures to treat sepsis.
If you have concerns around the sepsis care you or a loved one received don’t suffer in silence. Johnathan and our specialist team can help you understand what may have happened and if it was negligent in order to secure needed compensation to help you in your next steps. To speak to Johnathan or a member of our team call us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so a member of our team can call you back at a time convenient for you.
