Sepsis Smart

05/20/2026

“It started with a cough — and it just went wild.”

After a routine surgery, Bela Maranhas developed an infection that quickly turned into sepsis. She’s sharing her story to raise awareness and help others recognize the signs early. You can make a difference by knowing what to look for and acting fast.

🔗Read Bela’s story: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/how-this-sepsis-survivor-nearly-lost-her-life-from-an-infection

05/04/2026

Anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection can lead to sepsis. Pregnant and postpartum women are at higher risk of infection due to changes in their immune system and needing medical procedures during their pregnancy.

The CDC offers a helpful fact sheet for pregnant and postpartum women to understand their risk and take early action if something feels off:

🔗 https://www.cdc.gov/sepsis/communication-resources/pregnant-postpartum-risk.html

04/23/2026

Nearly half of ICU sepsis survivors face long-term effects. You can support recovery by recognizing post-sepsis symptoms.

🔗 Learn more from End Sepsis, The Legacy of Rory Staunton here: https://www.endsepsis.org/what-is-sepsis/post-sepsis-syndrome/

04/06/2026

It’s .

You can protect children and others by learning the signs of sepsis and acting quickly.

🔗https://www.mass.gov/sepsis-smart

03/26/2026

Sepsis can be difficult to detect because its symptoms are easily confused with other illnesses. Things like fever or shivering, extreme tiredness, confusion, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and unexplained severe pain could be sepsis. Many people describe it as “feeling worse than you've ever felt before.”

You can help by knowing what to watch for and getting care early. Learn more at buff.ly/cPrJNJW

03/17/2026

The Boston Globe article highlights the sudden loss of a newlywed whose symptoms went from mild discomfort to a medical emergency in just a day. It’s a devastating story about how sepsis may be difficult to detect in the early stages but can escalate rapidly.

Anyone can develop sepsis, but prompt medical attention can make a life‑saving difference. Staying aware of symptoms, especially when feeling unusually ill, is key to prevention and early treatment. Read more about sepsis and its causes, dangers, and how to prevent it: https://buff.ly/hSbrcdA

Anyone, even healthy adults, can contract sepsis after an infection, experts said.

03/10/2026

Post-sepsis syndrome affects nearly half of sepsis survivors.

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms after sepsis, talk to a doctor. Learn more about post-sepsis syndrome here from the End Sepsis, The Legacy of Rory Staunton:

Post-sepsis syndrome (PSS) can occur after a person recovers from sepsis and can cause physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that can last for months or years. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, joint pain, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. PSS is bel...

02/26/2026

Sepsis can start from something small, like a cut or scrape that doesn’t get properly cleaned. You can stop it by acting fast. Know the symptoms and seek care early.

🔗https://buff.ly/FyM3CWG

02/10/2026

You can help save lives by raising awareness of maternal sepsis. Learn the signs and support safer care for mothers.

Learn more and download the fact sheet from End Sepsis, The Legacy of Rory Staunton: https://www.endsepsis.org/mothers/

01/21/2026

Sepsis doesn’t always end when the infection clears. Survivors and their loved ones often face emotional and psychological challenges that linger long after hospitalization. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and even grief can affect not just the patient but the entire family.

Find support and resources at Sepsis Alliance Connect: https://www.sepsis.org/education/patients-family/mental-health/