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Who can get sepsis?

Sepsis doesn’t discriminate, meaning anyone with an infection can get it. However, some are more susceptible to infection, which can make them more vulnerable to sepsis.

This includes:

  • Babies under one year old, particularly if they’re born prematurely (before 37 weeks of pregnancy), or if the mother had an infection while pregnant.
  • Women who have just given birth had a miscarriage or an abortion.
  • The elderly, typically people over 75 years old.
  • People with long-term health conditions like Diabetes.
  • People with a weakened immune system, such as those who’ve recently had an organ transplant or Chemotherapy.
  • People with medical conditions that weaken the immune system, like HIV or Leukemia.
  • People who’ve recently had surgery or are in hospital with a serious illness.
  • People who’ve had a Urinary Catheter Fitted.
  • People who are genetically prone to infections.
  • People who have wounds or injuries from an accident.
  • People who are on mechanical ventilation (where a machine is used to help you breathe).
  • People who have to stay in the hospital for a long period of time.