Septicaemia Dr Rob Hicks The body's immune system is designed to detect, track down and kill bacteria that cause infections, but if bacteria get into the bloodstream they can invade any part of the body and cause serious damage.

In this article

What causes it? What are the symptoms?

Who's affected? How's it prevented?

What's the treatment?

Septicaemia is a bacterial infection of the blood, commonly known as blood poisoning.

Often it's a complication of another infection, such as of the lungs or kidneys, and occurs when the bacteria escape that part of the body and get into the bloodstream.

This bacteria can also come from burns, infected wounds, boils and tooth abscesses.

The symptoms of septicaemia develop rapidly and may include:

• High fever
• Violent shivering
• Faintness
• Cold and pale hands and feet
• Rapid and shallow breathing
• Restlessness
• Delirium
• Shock
• Loss of consciousness

When infection is with meningocuccus bacteria, a rash may appear. This starts off as small red-purple spots that grow quickly to become blotchy and look like little bruises. It doesn't fade when pressed.

Anyone can develop septicaemia. The people most at risk are those with weakened immune systems, because of an existing illness, for example, or medication.

Older people, children and intravenous drug users are also more susceptible.

Immunisation can protect people from certain bacteria that can cause septicaemia. For example, in the UK babies are vaccinated against group C meningococcus as part of their routine immunisation programme.

To reduce the risk of wounds and burns becoming infected, keep them clean and properly dressed. If you suspect an infection, seek medical advice before more serious problems have the chance to develop. The same applies to any suspected tooth or gum infections.

Septicaemia is a medical emergency requiring urgent hospital treatment. This may include antibiotics to kill the invading bacteria.

Often intensive care therapy is needed to support any organs that have been damaged by the infection.

If treatment is given early enough, most people make a good recovery.

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks in June 2007.