BHealthy Blog

What You Can Do to Help Prevent Sepsis

Sepsis can be caused by any type of infection: bacterial, viral, fungal, or even parasitic. Many infections can be prevented simply by good and consistent hygiene. Others can be prevented through the use of vaccinations.

Get vaccinated

Vaccinations, also known as immunizations, can help make you immune to viruses, such as the chickenpox, which can lead to sepsis.

Care for open wounds

Cuts, scrapes, or breaks in the skin can allow harmful bacteria to enter your body. For this reason, it’s essential to:

Clean open wounds as quickly as possible and keep them clean.

Monitor wounds for signs of infection: such as redness around the wound, skin around the wound is warm to touch, increased pain and/or discharge from the wound.

Consult a doctor if there are signs of infection.

If prescribed, take your antibiotics correctly

Carefully follow the directions for use

Take them on time

Finish the full course, even if you feel better sooner

Store the antibiotics as directed

Wash your hands

using running water. Lather your hands well, rub between each finger and under your nails, and dry your hands thoroughly with a clean towel. You can also use waterless cleansers if soap and water are not available. Make sure to wash your hands:

Before eating or handling food

After using the bathroom

After blowing your nose or coughing

After touching pets or other animals

After being outside the home, such as going to school or shopping