Ipswich Hospital has turned the spotlight on sepsis to mark an international awareness campaign designed to improve care for people with the potentially life-threatening condition.

An animated light show highlighting the symptoms people should look out for as well as other key information is being projected onto the Garrett Anderson Centre during the evenings between September 11-15.

Educational stands and displays have also been set up at the hospital and leaflets given to patients to observe World Sepsis Day, on September 13.

Sepsis is triggered when an infection causes an extreme reaction in the body’s immune system.

Symptoms include a raised heart rate, shortness of breath, low temperature, chills, muscle pain, confusion, drowsiness, slurred speech and a rash or discoloured skin.

The condition can progress to septic shock and multiple organ failure unless it is treated with interventions including intravenous antibiotics.

There are approximately 123,000 cases of sepsis each year in England and around 37,000 people die as a result, which is more than breast and bowel cancer combined.

Anyone can develop sepsis after an injury or minor infection, although people with a weak immune system, those already in hospital, the very young and very old and people who have just had surgery are particularly vulnerable. It is important to get help as soon as symptoms develop.

Lucy Butler, clinical nurse specialist for the deteriorating patient at Ipswich Hospital, said: “Sepsis is a common illness, but can have very serious consequences if it is left untreated.

“We hope that the activities taking place across the hospital during the week will help raise awareness. The projection in particular will give knowledge to patients, relatives and visitors about what signs and symptoms to look out for.”

She added: “The awareness and education will also arm our staff with the right tools to manage sepsis in the most appropriate and efficient way.”

The light show has been made possible thanks to the support of Blachere Illuminations, Felixstowe-based Turners Construction, Cozens (UK) Ltd and Sarah Bunney at Just Some Bunny Designs.

Have you or someone close to you had sepsis? Get in touch via email.