Sepsis-Stiftung calls for measures to prevent 10,000 annual deaths in Germany

The Sepsis-Stiftung has released the ‘Sepsis-Dossier Deutschland 2026’, outlining eight demands to reduce sepsis-related deaths in Germany. The foundation aims to prevent at least 10,000 deaths annually by linking infection prevention, pandemic preparedness, and the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

Data from the Global Burden of Disease Report suggests that Germany faces at least 140,000 sepsis-related deaths per year, excluding those caused by COVID-19. While countries like Norway and Finland have seen significant decreases in sepsis mortality, Germany saw a 10.1 percent increase between 1990 and 2019, followed by a 51.5 percent spike during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sepsis, often called blood poisoning, occurs when an infection triggers an immune response that attacks the body's own cells, potentially leading to organ failure. High-risk groups include the elderly, pregnant women, newborns, and children. Key warning signs include sudden health deterioration, confusion, nausea, or changes in behavior such as loss of appetite in children. Experts emphasize that rapid medical intervention is critical and recommend hygiene measures and vaccinations as preventative steps.