A shocking medical case from the United Kingdom has brought renewed attention to sepsis — a fast-moving and potentially deadly condition that can escalate within hours. In July 2025, a 52-year-old woman, Manjit Sangha, fell critically ill after what doctors believe began as a simple dog lick on a minor cut. Within a day, her health deteriorated dramatically, eventually leading to multiple cardiac arrests and the amputation of all four limbs.
Her story is not just heartbreaking – it is also a powerful reminder of how quickly sepsis can develop and why early recognition is crucial.
How the Infection Escalated So Quickly
According to reports, Sangha returned home from work feeling unwell. By the following morning, she was unconscious. Her hands and feet were ice-cold, her lips had turned purple, and she was struggling to breathe — classic signs that her body was in severe distress.
She was rushed to New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton and admitted to intensive care. Over the course of her hospitalization, she suffered six cardiac arrests. Doctors ultimately had to amputate both legs below the knee and both hands in order to stop the spread of infection. Her spleen was also removed due to complications.
Medical experts believe bacteria from her dog’s saliva entered her bloodstream through a small cut or scratch. The bacterium suspected in such cases is Capnocytophaga canimorsus, commonly found in dogs. While harmless to animals, it can, in rare instances, cause severe infection in humans.
What Is Sepsis?
Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when the body’s response to infection damages its own tissues and organs. Instead of fighting the infection in a controlled manner, the immune system triggers widespread inflammation throughout the body.
If untreated, sepsis can progress to septic shock — a severe condition characterized by dangerously low blood pressure, organ failure, and potentially death.
Sepsis can develop from almost any infection, including:
- Lung infections (such as pneumonia)
- Urinary tract infections
- Abdominal infections
- Skin infections
- Infections of the brain or spinal cord
Early diagnosis and immediate treatment significantly improve survival rates.
Common Symptoms of Sepsis
Recognizing sepsis early can save lives. Symptoms may vary, but common warning signs include:
- Fever or unusually low body temperature
- Rapid heart rate
- Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme pain or discomfort
- Fatigue or confusion
- Reduced urination
- Discolored rash or dark red spots on the skin
- Cold, pale, or clammy skin
In severe cases, patients may experience confusion, unconsciousness, or signs of organ failure.
If someone shows these symptoms and has recently had an infection — even a minor one — emergency medical care should be sought immediately.
How Can a Dog Lick Cause Infection?
Dogs naturally carry bacteria in their mouths, including Capnocytophaga canimorsus. In most cases, this bacterium does not cause harm to humans. However, if it enters the bloodstream through an open wound, it can cause severe infection, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
People at higher risk include:
- Those with diabetes
- Individuals with liver disease
- People who have had their spleen removed
- Those with weakened immune systems
- Older adults
It’s important to note that such cases are rare. Millions of people interact safely with pets every day. However, basic hygiene — including cleaning wounds promptly and avoiding pet saliva contact with open cuts — can reduce risk.
Severe Complications of Sepsis
Sepsis can lead to multiple life-threatening complications:
1. Septic Shock
A dramatic drop in blood pressure that disrupts blood flow to vital organs, leading to tissue damage and potential organ failure.
2. Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)
Fluid builds up in the lungs, making breathing difficult and often requiring mechanical ventilation.
3. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
Abnormal blood clotting occurs throughout the body, causing both clot formation and excessive bleeding.
4. Acute Kidney Injury
Reduced blood flow damages the kidneys, sometimes requiring dialysis and causing long-term complications.
5. Post-Sepsis Syndrome (PSS)
Even after recovery, many survivors face long-term effects such as fatigue, muscle weakness, memory problems, anxiety, and depression.
Why Early Treatment Is Critical
Sepsis is time-sensitive. Studies show that every hour of delayed treatment increases the risk of death. Early management typically includes:
- Intravenous antibiotics
- IV fluids
- Oxygen support
- Medications to stabilize blood pressure
- Intensive care monitoring
The faster treatment begins, the better the chances of survival and reduced long-term damage.
What This Case Teaches Us
This case is not meant to create fear around pets but to increase awareness about sepsis. Infections can sometimes progress rapidly, even from small wounds that seem harmless.
Practical steps to reduce risk include:
- Cleaning cuts and scratches immediately
- Avoiding pet saliva contact with open wounds
- Seeking medical help if flu-like symptoms worsen quickly
- Being especially cautious if you have underlying health conditions
Understanding the warning signs of sepsis and acting quickly can make a life-saving difference.
Final Conclusion
Sepsis remains one of the most serious and unpredictable medical emergencies. While rare cases linked to pet bacteria can occur, the broader lesson is about awareness. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking prompt medical care dramatically improves outcomes.
Manjit Sangha’s experience is a sobering reminder of how quickly an infection can escalate. Greater public understanding of sepsis — its symptoms, risks, and urgency – may help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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