Flu and Sepsis
How are flu and sepsis related?
Sepsis is the body’s extreme reaction to any type of infection. The flu, which is a viral infection, can cause secondary complications such as sepsis. Sepsis is one of the most common flu complications that requires hospitalization.1
![Kendra O'brien, Flu and Sepsis Flu and Sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/KendraObrien_FluSepsis_Photo_purple.png)
After four days in ICU, sepsis invaded her body and Kendra’s condition worsened.
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis is the body’s reaction to an uncontrolled infection, which can be bacterial, viral, or fungal in nature. These infections can cause a chain reaction in your body, causing tissue damage, organ failure, and even death. It is critically important to seek immediate medical attention if sepsis is suspected.
Who is at risk for developing sepsis as a secondary complication of flu?
ANYONE, regardless of health status, can fall victim to sepsis. People with chronic conditions, such as diabetes or lung disease, older adults, and young children are especially vulnerable to developing sepsis.
![Joseph Marotta, Flu and Sepsis Flu and Sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/JosephMarotta_FluSepsis_Photo_blue.jpg)
Joseph suffered a catastrophic intestinal rupture as a result of H1N1 influenza that caused him to go into shock.
Symptoms of Sepsis
![Sepsis symptoms; confusion Flu and sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/FluSepsisSymptoms_Confusion_Icon-75.png)
Confusion or disorientation
![Sepsis symptoms; shortness of breath Flu and sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/FluSepsisSymptoms_ShortBreath_Icon_75-2.png)
Shortness of breath
![Sepsis symptoms; rapid heart rate Flu and sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/FluSepsisSymptoms_rapid-heart-rate_Icon_75.png)
Rapid heart rate
![Sepsis symptoms; fever Flu and sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/FluSepsisSymptoms_Fever_Icon-75.png)
Fever
![Sepsis symptoms; shivering or feeling very cold Flu and sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/FluSepsisSymptoms_Shivering-Cold_Icon-75-2.png)
Shivering or feeling very cold
![Sepsis symptoms; extreme pain or discomfort Flu and sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/FluSepsisSymptoms_Pain_Icon-75.png)
Extreme pain or discomfort
![Sepsis symptoms; clammy or sweaty Flu and sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/FluSepsisSymptoms_Clammy_Icon-75.png)
Clammy or sweaty
![](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/Flu-SepticShock-HeartRateDrop-150.png)
How is sepsis diagnosed and treated?
Healthcare providers use a number of physical findings to diagnose suspected sepsis, including fever, low blood pressure, increased heart rate, and difficulty breathing. Lab tests may also be used to check for signs of infection or organ damage.
Treatment for sepsis may include the use of antibiotics, oxygen, IV fluids, assisted breathing measures, and/or surgery to remove damaged tissue.
![Sepsis complication in up to 30% of flu-related pediatric deaths Sepsis complication in up to 30% of flu-related pediatric deaths](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/30PercentofFluDeaths_Sepsis_350.png)
Did you know?
Sepsis or septic shock are listed as complications
in up to 30% of pediatric flu-related deaths.4
![Trevor Lin, Flu and Sepsis Influenza and sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/TrevorLin_Flu-and-Sepsis_Photo.png)
It wasn’t until after Trevor’s death that his physician father realized that his son’s flu infection had led to sepsis.
The Difference Between Sepsis and Septic Shock
Sepsis can progress to septic shock, which is a life-threatening condition. Septic shock is generally identified by a dramatic drop in blood pressure.
![Caroline Miller, Flu and Sepsis Influenza and Sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/CarolineMiller_FluSepsis_Photo.jpg)
Caroline's month-long battle with flu included secondary complications such as pneumonia, severe sepsis, septic shock, and hypoxemia.
![Ayzlee McCarthy, Flu and Sepsis Influenza and Sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/AyzleeMcCarthy_FluSepsis_Photo_vert.jpg)
Less than 10 hours after arriving at the ER, Ayzlee passed away from septic shock, secondary to influenza.
![Maya Cargile, Flu and Sepsis Influenza and Sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/MayaCargile_FluVaccine_Photo_purple.jpg)
Despite Maya's lowered fever, she wasn't getting better, and in fact, seemed worse - a sign she was going into septic shock.
![Amiah MorningStar Houseman, Flu and Sepsis Influenza and Sepsis](https://www.familiesfightingflu.org/wp-content/uploads/Amiah_FluSepsis_Photo.jpg)
Amiah lost her life just 12 hours after her flu illness led to pneumonia and sepsis.
Where can I learn more about sepsis?
Page last reviewed: October 2021.