September is Sepsis Awareness Month. This annual observance offers a critical opportunity for individuals, healthcare professionals and community partners to help save lives by raising awareness of this serious condition.

Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection. It can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death. According to the Sepsis Alliance, sepsis is the leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals.

While sepsis can impact anyone, some groups have a higher risk of contracting this life-threatening infection. These include older adults and those with a weakened immune system.

Through public education, we can raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis. This can help people know when to seek emergency care for themselves or others.

Visit the Sepsis Alliance’s poster and infographic library for tools to help raise awareness of this public health crisis.