Local health experts warn of sepsis risks after NASCAR star's death

Added: 2026-06-03

[00:00:00]NASCAR champion Kyle Busch died last month after pneumonia escalated into sepsis. While his death cast a fresh light on the condition, the CDC says it's the most common cause of death in hospitals, killing more than 350,000 adults each year.

[00:00:17]>> Sepsis is the body's response to an infection. The immune system goes into overdrive and starts attacking the organs of the body.

[00:00:27]>> Though some people like adults over age 65, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions are at a higher risk, Dr. Kimberly Span emphasizes the reaction can impact anyone.

[00:00:39]>> The most common cause of sepsis from an infection is pneumonia.

[00:00:45]However, other infections can cause it including urinary tract infections, abdominal infections, or skin or soft tissue infections.

[00:00:54]>> Dr. Span and Terrell both use the acronym time, telling people to watch for temperature changes, infection, mental decline, and extreme illness.