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OGHS Recognizes National Sepsis Awareness Month

What you should know about Sepsis

By Macaroni KID Acadia-St. Landry Publisher, Courtney J September 4, 2025

From Opelousas General Health Sysem - In recognition of National Sepsis Awareness Month, Opelousas General Health System is hosting activities throughout the month to raise awareness and to educate the public about the importance of early recognition and treatment of sepsis.

What is Sepsis?

There is no one test for Sepsis. It is an extreme reaction within the body that is often difficult to diagnose immediately. Sepsis occurs when chemicals released in the bloodstream to fight an infection trigger inflammation throughout the body when any infection, even minor, are left untreated, leading to bacterial infection. Symptoms include fever, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, fast heart rate, and mental confusion. 

Some people at higher risk for sepsis include older adults, pregnant women, infants and people with weakened immune symptoms and chronic medical conditions.

OGHS-Hosted Events

  • September 4, from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., OGHS staff will be providing life-saving facts about sepsis. The public is invited to test their knowledge with an exciting “Wheel of Fortune” style game. This will take place at Main Campus on the first floor across from the cafeteria.
  • September 12, at 10:00 a.m., OGHS will host a Sepsis Walk in recognition of World Sepsis Day. The public is invited to participate in the walk around Main Campus.
  • Throughout the week of September 15 – 19, OGHS will host a variety of food trucks at both Main and South campuses. These are open to the public.

Opelousas General Health System coordinated this initiative to empower patients to recognize early symptoms before it becomes a life-threatening emergency.

About Opelousas General Health System

Since 1957 , Opelousas General Health System has been dedicated to the provision of quality healthcare through its strong commitment and high standards. Central to the success of OGHS's commitment for excellence is the presence of an outstanding and highly qualified staff of physicians, nurses, technologists, and other personnel who provide professional treatment in a caring environment. Serving as the region's referral medical center, OGHS is a 171-bed, full service medical center, and the area's most comprehensive community healthcare facility offering a wide range of medical specialties and state-of-the-art technology. Visit us at www.opelousasgeneral.com .