The Ministry of Health has sounded the alarm over the increasing threat of sepsis and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Uganda, warning that thousands of lives are being lost annually due to late detection and ineffective treatment.

Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the national Sepsis Commemoration Day, scheduled for October 3, 2025, in Lira, Dr. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services, revealed that an estimated 30,000 deaths occur each year in Uganda due to drug-resistant infections, many of which are linked to undiagnosed or late-diagnosed sepsis.

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to an infection causes damage to its own tissues and organs.

If not promptly treated, it can quickly lead to organ failure and death.

Dr. Olaro cited hospital data showing that nearly four in ten patients who die in healthcare facilities are victims of drug-resistant infections.

He emphasized that many of these cases involve sepsis that went unrecognized until it was too late for effective intervention.

Dr. Susan Nabadda, Commissioner for Laboratory Services at the Ministry, warned that even minor infections—such as those affecting the skin or throat—can spiral into severe sepsis if not properly managed.

She called for increased public awareness and timely medical attention for infections, no matter how small they may seem.

The Ministry is urging healthcare workers and the public to take early signs of infection seriously and to avoid misuse of antibiotics, which contributes to antimicrobial resistance.

Sepsis Commemoration Day will serve as a national platform to raise awareness, promote early detection, and advocate for stronger infection prevention and control measures across health facilities.

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