A Scotland-wide campaign to raise public awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis was launched at University Hospital Wishaw.

The campaign was launched by Health Secretary Shona Robison where she met the healthcare professionals who developed an innovative early-warning system for the early diagnosis of patients with sepsis and ensure arrangements to treat them are in place at the hospital on arrival.

Ms Robison said: “The Scottish Government is committed to raising awareness of the dangers of sepsis.

“While mortality rates from sepsis have fallen by 21% since 2012, there is still more to be done and I am confident this campaign will play its part in equipping the public with a better understanding of the signs and symptoms.”

Dr Calum McGregor, NHS Lanarkshire consultant acute physician, said: “Sepsis can lead to shock, multiple organ failure and even death. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics can reduce mortality.”

“Five symptoms and signs to be aware of are a change in behaviour such as confusion, cold or blotchy hands and feet, uncontrollable shivering, very high or low temperature and reduced urine output. Recent data suggests that for every hour’s delay in antibiotics, the chances of dying from sepsis increase so it is vital we get people the treatment they need as quickly as possible.”

The camapign is being delivered in partnership with sepsis awareness and support charities FEAT, Scotland’s Sepsis Charity, and Finding Your Feet.

Craig Stobo, founder and chair of FEAT, said: “This is a milestone for sepsis awareness in Scotland.  FEAT, Scotland’s Sepsis Charity, is delighted to be launching this nationwide campaign in partnership with the Scottish Government.”

Various promotional materials will be displayed in GP surgeries and hospitals to complement work being done through the Scottish Patient Safety Programme to also raise awareness among healthcare teams.