Child sepsis safety net

This leaflet was originally produced in collaboration with The UK Sepsis Trust - it has since been updated. This charity is committed to raising awareness of sepsis and improving the care of patients with sepsis.

Call an ambulance immediately - 999 if in the UK - If your child has any of the following:

• Is breathing very fast.

• Has a 'fit' or convulsion.

• Has clammy, cold skin and looks blue, pale or patchy (mottled).

• Has a rash that does not fade when you press it. The glass test is a good way to work this out - press a clear glass against the rash - if the rash does not fade or disappear, call an ambulance immediately.

• Is very lethargic or difficult to wake.

• Feels abnormally cold to touch.

Other severe symptoms to look out for - again, call an ambulance if your child:

• Has severe shivering.

• Has severe muscle pain or tummy (abdominal) pain.

• Is confused or disorientated (not sure where they are).

• Has slurred speech.

• Is feeling very dizzy or faint

• Is not passing urine all day (18 hours for older children and adults; 12 hours for younger children)

Any child under 5 years of age with the symptoms below may have sepsis - you must seek immediate medical attention (call your GP or go to your nearest emergency department) if your child:

• Is not feeding.

• Is vomiting repeatedly.

• Hasn't had a wee or a wet nappy for 12 hours.

If your child does have sepsis they may also have other symptoms of infection such as a flu-like illness (cough, fever, muscle aches and joint pains) or diarrhoea and vomiting.