During Sepsis Awareness Month, the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) and the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) are emphasizing the risks posed by sepsis, a severe and potentially preventable medical condition. Officials warn that while anyone can develop sepsis, older adults face an especially high risk.
Governor Kathy Hochul marked the month with a proclamation: “we must and will continue to raise awareness of the dangers of sepsis to help individuals recognize the signs of the medical emergency, and to strengthen sepsis treatments for the benefit of all New Yorkers.”
Sepsis is described as an extreme response to infection that can cause tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Although it is a leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals, about 90% of cases start in community settings rather than in hospitals. Data indicate that roughly 6 percent of hospitalizations are due to sepsis, with 35 percent of in-hospital deaths attributed to it.
NYSOFA Director Greg Olsen stated, “Sepsis can be deadly and does not discriminate by age. It is particularly threatening to older adults, young children and people with underlying medical conditions, so it’s vital to know the sign and symptoms. Get immediate medical help if you experience fever, extreme pain, high heart rate, shortness of breath, confusion and clammy or sweaty skin.”
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald added: “People who are older, very young, pregnant or have underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for developing sepsis, a serious bloodstream infection. As we recognize Sepsis Awareness Month, I urge all New Yorkers to be aware of the symptoms associated with sepsis and act fast to seek medical treatment if they suspect this life-threatening condition.”
Director Olsen recently hosted a livestream event featuring Thomas Heymann from Sepsis Alliance and Orlaith Staunton from END SEPSIS to discuss ongoing efforts in raising awareness about sepsis.
NYSDOH highlights that those most at risk include older adults as well as individuals with pre-existing health issues. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists several warning signs for sepsis such as fever or shivering/chills; confusion or disorientation; shortness of breath; high heart rate; extreme pain or discomfort; and clammy or sweaty skin.
Each year in New York State approximately 73,000 adults and 600 children experience severe sepsis or septic shock. Nationally at least 1.7 million adults develop sepsis annually—with more than 350,000 dying during hospitalization or being discharged to hospice care.
New York was first in the nation to require all hospitals statewide adopt protocols aimed at rapid identification and treatment following Rory’s Regulations—implemented after Rory Staunton’s death from undiagnosed sepsis. Since their introduction in 2014 alongside other state initiatives like mandatory training on infection control precautions for certain licensed professionals—the NYS Sepsis Care Improvement Initiative has contributed significantly toward early detection efforts within hospitals across New York State.
These measures reportedly saved over 16,000 lives between 2015-2019 through improved early detection strategies for severe cases according to state officials.
Collaborative work among NYSOFA, Sepsis Alliance,the Association on Aging in New York, Home Care Association of New York State (HCA), END SEPSIS: The Legacy of Rory Staunton has resulted in educational resources available online—including materials translated into twelve languages—to support organizations serving older adults throughout New York.These resources are accessible via NYSOFA’s website.
Thomas Heymann from Sepsis Alliance said: “Sepsis kills more Americans each year than breast cancer, prostate cancer, and opioid overdoses combined yet too few people know the signs and symptoms. We applaud New York State’s leadership in recognizing Sepsis Awareness Month and prioritizing education and prevention. By working together to raise awareness especially among older adults… we can save lives…”
Ciaran & Orlaith Staunton from END SEPSIS noted: “Rory’s Regulations in New York have effectively saved lives… But… loss continues across our nation… demands… comprehensive response nationwide… The bipartisan SEPSIS Act introduced into Senate earlier this year… championed by our own Senator Chuck Schumer is a critical step…”
Al Cardillo from HCA commented: “The vast majority of sepsis-related infections originate in home/community… home health agencies are exceptionally well-positioned partners… HCA urges all home/community health agencies adopt… tools… save lives… prevent disability…”
Becky Preve from Association on Aging said: “Sepsis is a devastating life-ending/life-altering issue that is largely misunderstood… During Sepsis Awareness Month NYSOFA/NYSDOH are working provide information education/action save lives/increase awareness…”
More information about local efforts on education regarding recognition/prevention/treatment—and access/downloads for public use—can be found at NYSOFA’s dedicated webpage.
