16.12.16
Hunt launches new child sepsis awareness campaign
Health secretary Jeremy Hunt has launched a new nationwide campaign aimed towards helping parents protect their children from sepsis.
The campaign is predominantly aimed at parents and carers of young children aged 0 to 4, with the UK Sepsis Trust estimating that there are 120,000 cases of sepsis each year in England with 37,000 people dying from the illness.
The campaign, delivered by Public Health England and the UK Sepsis Trust, follows a number of measures already taken by the NHS to improve early recognition and timely treatment of sepsis, such as a national fast-screening scheme.
Hunt said: “Sepsis is a devastating condition that we need to far get better at spotting across the NHS. By raising awareness and improving clinical practice we will save lives in the fight against this horrible illness.”
“I’d like to thank those who have worked with us to campaign for better awareness of sepsis.”
GP surgeries and hospitals are now receiving leaflets and posters on the condition developed by experts, which urge parents to call 999 or take their child to A&E if they display symptoms like looking bluish or pale, fast breathing or a non-fading rash.
The DH is also working with Health Education England to make sure that all health professionals have the knowledge and skills to identify and treat sepsis.
Professor Paul Cosford, director of health protection and medical director at Public Health England, explained that it is vital that parents have the information to act quickly in cases of sepsis as this could save their child’s life.
“This campaign gives parents vital information about sepsis, helps them identify the symptoms of sepsis and encourages them to seek the appropriate medical attention,” Prof Cosford said.
“It is important that these messages are widely received which is why I am writing with Sir Bruce Keogh to all NHS medical directors to highlight this campaign and the importance of making all staff aware of the signs of sepsis.”
The UK Sepsis Trust’s chief executive Dr Ron Daniels called the initiative “a crucial step forward” but said that it must be followed by wider improvements to sepsis care.
“The UK Sepsis Trust welcomes this initiative, but system-wide improvements to sepsis care must follow,” Dr Daniels added.
“We’re delighted to have developed campaign materials that will empower parents to identify sepsis symptoms in their children and seek medical attention immediately.”
(Image c. Neil Hall and PA Wire)
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