Septicemia

Calling Your Health Care Provider

Septicemia is not common but is devastating and early recognition may prevent progression to shock.

• Any child with fever, shaking chills, and who looks acutely ill should be seen immediately as an emergency.
• Any child with evidence of bleeding into his skin should be seen immediately as an emergency.
• Any child who has been ill and has any changes in mental status should be seen immediately as an emergency.

Call your health care provider if your child is not current on vaccinations or has not had immunizations for Hemophilus influenza B, commonly referred to as a HIB shot. If your child has a damaged spleen from any disease or has had it removed, schedule an appointment for an immunization against pneumococcal disease.