Dr. Felipe Rola in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Sepsis can’t always be prevented, but research shows you can meaningfully lower your risk with practical, evidence-based steps. Key strategies include staying up to date on vaccines (flu, pneumonia, COVID-19), practicing hand and wound hygiene, caring for catheters and lines correctly, and promptly treating infections while using antibiotics wisely. Managing chronic conditions (such as diabetes), maintaining good dental and skin care, and following post-surgery or post-discharge instructions also reduce risk. Knowing early warning signs—fever or very low temperature, fast breathing or heart rate, confusion, extreme weakness, or low urine output—and seeking urgent care can be lifesaving. The article offers clear guidance and questions to discuss with your clinician, especially for higher-risk groups (older adults, infants, people with weakened immunity), to help patients and caregivers take confident, preventive action.