Farmers warned about increased risk of sepsis

Farmers are being warned that they are at an increased risk of developing sepsis, as the nature of their job makes them more susceptible to cuts and grazes.

Joining forces with NFU Mutual, the UK Sepsis Trust has created an informative video to spread awareness of the causes and symptoms of sepsis.

It follows on from the tragic death of 26-year-old Cumbrian livestock farmer Hannah Brown, who died just two days after developing sepsis.

See also: Farm Doctor: Breaking down barriers to men’s health

Also known as blood poisoning, sepsis is caused when the immune system overreacts to an infection or injury.

It must be treated immediately because of the serious risk of organ failure or death, as current figures show that up to 48,000 people lose their lives to sepsis every year in the UK.

NFU Mutual rural affairs specialist Hannah Binns said: “Living and working in rural and often isolated settings means farmers cannot always get medical attention as quickly as they should. 

“This video highlights the real risks of contracting sepsis on a farm. By watching it, we hope farmers learn important information that can potentially save lives and livelihoods.”

Watch the video below.

Symptoms

Seek medical help urgently if you or someone you know develop the following symptoms: 

• Slurred speech or confusion 
• Extreme shivering or muscle pain 
• Passing no urine (in a day)
• Severe breathlessness
• It feels like you’re going to die
• Skin mottled or discoloured.

In children, sepsis symptoms could include: 

• Breathing very fast
• Having a “fit” or convulsion
• Looking mottled, bluish, or pale
• Having a rash that does not fade when you press it
• Being very lethargic or difficult to wake
• Feeling abnormally cold to the touch.