The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has joined the global effort to raise awareness during Sepsis Awareness Month 2025, emphasising the urgent need for early detection, prevention, and treatment of this life-threatening medical condition.
Sepsis occurs when the body’s response to an infection becomes uncontrolled, triggering widespread inflammation that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death. Globally, it remains one of the leading causes of death. In Guyana alone, sepsis accounted for 10% of all recorded deaths in 2024 — the equivalent of 10 out of every 100 deaths.
“Sepsis is a medical emergency that can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. However, with increased awareness, early detection, and rapid medical intervention, many lives can be saved,” said Dr. Navindranauth Rambaran, GPHC’s Director of Medical and Professional Services.
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis can result from a range of infections, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, cellulitis (a skin infection), or infected wounds after surgery. Because early symptoms are often subtle or mimic other illnesses, sepsis can advance rapidly and unpredictably.
To help the public recognise early signs, GPHC is promoting the acronym T.I.M.E.:
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T – Temperature: Higher or lower than normal, with fever or chills
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I – Infection: Symptoms of an existing infection
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M – Mental Decline: Confusion, sleepiness, or difficulty staying awake
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E – Extremely Ill: Severe pain, discomfort, or a feeling of impending doom
Other symptoms include rapid heartbeat, fast breathing, pale or clammy skin, and low urine output. In its most severe form, sepsis can progress to septic shock, with critically low blood pressure and multi-organ failure.
Who is Most at Risk?
While anyone can develop sepsis, some groups are particularly vulnerable:
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Infants and young children
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Seniors over 60
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People with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS, transplant recipients, diabetics, and those on immunosuppressive medications)
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Patients with chronic illnesses like kidney or lung disease
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Individuals recovering from surgery or major illness
Prevention is Critical
GPHC emphasised that the best defence against sepsis is prevention through good hygiene, wound care, proper vaccination, and the responsible management of chronic diseases. Importantly, they warn against self-medicating or using antibiotics without a doctor’s supervision.
“If an infection doesn’t improve or worsens, don’t delay. Ask your doctor: ‘Could this be sepsis?’” the hospital advised. Early intervention — including prompt antibiotics, IV fluids, and monitoring — significantly boosts survival chances.
Commitment to Public Awareness
As part of its ongoing health education efforts, GPHC is calling on all Guyanese to be informed and vigilant. By recognising the warning signs and taking swift action, lives can be saved.
“This Sepsis Awareness Month, we are reminding everyone that early action saves lives,” the Corporation stated. “Know the signs. Don’t delay. Sepsis is a medical emergency — and together, we can reduce its toll on our nation.”
