Research: Identifying sepsis cases in administrative data: a validation study

Date: 2026-02-05 Source: UK Health Security Agency

Summary

UKHSA is working with the NHS to improve identification of sepsis in England. This study will help identify how many adults get sepsis in England and who is most affected.

Key Points

• Purpose: Validation study to improve sepsis case identification in administrative health data
• Collaboration: Joint effort between UKHSA and NHS England
• Target population: Adult sepsis cases
• Objectives:
  • Quantify sepsis incidence in England
  • Identify demographic and clinical risk factors
  • Improve surveillance methodology

Public Health Significance

This research supports enhanced sepsis surveillance infrastructure in England, enabling:

• More accurate epidemiological tracking
• Identification of high-risk populations
• Evidence-based policy development for sepsis prevention and management

Methodology

The study validates methods for identifying sepsis cases using routine administrative data sources, which is critical for:

• Real-time surveillance
• Healthcare planning
• Resource allocation
• Outcome measurement

Implications

Improved case identification will strengthen England’s ability to:

• Monitor sepsis trends
• Target interventions to vulnerable groups
• Evaluate healthcare system performance
• Reduce sepsis-related mortality and morbidity