What are the first signs of sepsis Roberta Alisauskaite experienced?

Roberta Alisauskaite initially felt unwell with 'winter flu' symptoms, which she attributed to a cold from work.

Could a wisdom tooth infection cause sepsis like Roberta Alisauskaite's?

Doctors suggested that an infected wisdom tooth, combined with a flu-like illness, may have contributed to Roberta Alisauskaite's sepsis by lowering her immunity.

What should you do if you suspect sepsis, as Roberta Alisauskaite did?

If sepsis is suspected, call 999 or go to A&E immediately and trust your instincts, as prompt treatment is vital.

Home / Health / Mother's Flu Was Deadly Sepsis Shock

Mother's Flu Was Deadly Sepsis Shock

9 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Sepsis, a life-threatening infection reaction, nearly killed a young mother.
Symptoms began as flu-like but rapidly escalated over days.
An infected wisdom tooth may have been the potential trigger.

Roberta Alisauskaite, a mental health nurse and mother of two from Wales, narrowly escaped death when her 'winter flu' symptoms escalated into a life-threatening case of sepsis. Initially attributing her unwellness to a work-related cold, her condition deteriorated rapidly over several days. She experienced severe chills, fever, and confusion, a stark contrast to her earlier symptoms.

The situation climaxed when her sons found her with slurred speech and unresponsive, prompting her eldest son to call for an ambulance. Her mother, facing a significant wait for emergency services, transported her to Glangwili General Hospital. There, she received critical treatment for sepsis, including IV antibiotics and pain medication.