Most of us have heard the word sepsis, but many don’t know exactly what it is — or how dangerous it can be. With more than 55,000 cases in Australia each year and thousands of deaths, sepsis is the leading cause of hospital deaths. Yet it doesn’t just strike in hospitals. Around 80% of cases actually start in the community — from something as simple as a cut in the shed, a scratch from a pet, or even the flu.
To help shed some light on this serious health issue, Stuart Torrance, AMSA’s Shed Development Coordinator – Wellbeing & Health recently spoke with Dr Brett Abbenbroek from Sepsis Australia for On the Pulse . With more than 40 years in critical care and emergency medicine, Brett has seen firsthand the impact of this condition.
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis isn’t an infection itself — it’s the body’s dangerous overreaction to an infection. Normally, the immune system fights off bacteria, viruses or other bugs. But when the response goes into overdrive, the body starts attacking its own organs, leading to organ failure, limb loss, or death if untreated.
“The burden of sepsis is actually three times higher than we first thought,” says Dr Abbenbroek. “It kills more people than common cancers and far more than road trauma — but it often goes unrecognised.”
Signs to Watch For
Unlike a stroke or heart attack, sepsis doesn’t have one clear warning sign. Instead, it shows up as a mix of symptoms, which makes it tricky to diagnose. Things to look out for include:
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Fever, chills or feeling unusually hot or sweaty
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Rapid heartbeat or fast breathing
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Slurred speech or confusion
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Extreme tiredness or feeling “knocked for six”
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A wound or infection that seems to be getting worse
If these symptoms don’t feel like a “normal” flu or cold — and especially if they’re getting worse — it’s time to act fast. Early treatment is critical, with antibiotics ideally given within the first 60 minutes.
Dr Abbenbroek’s advice: “If you’re concerned, don’t try to diagnose yourself. Go to your GP, urgent care or emergency department, and ask the health professionals the question: Could it be sepsis? That simple question can trigger life-saving action.”
Prevention and Protection
While sepsis can’t always be prevented, you can reduce your risk:
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Keep cuts and wounds clean and covered
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Practise good hygiene
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Stay up to date with vaccinations
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Eat well, stay active, and stay socially connected to strengthen your immune system
Anything that supports your overall health — good diet, regular exercise, and connection with others — also helps your body respond more effectively to infection.
The Bigger Picture
Sepsis costs Australia an estimated $15 billion each year in healthcare and lost productivity — a staggering figure that highlights the importance of awareness and early treatment.
For men in sheds, the takeaway is simple: don’t brush off illness or infections. If you’re feeling worse than usual, or something “just doesn’t feel right,” get it checked out. Acting quickly can save your life.
For more information and resources, visit Sepsis Australia.