Septicemia can rapidly lead to septic shock and death.
Septicemia associated with some organisms such a meningococci can lead to shock , adrenal collapse and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy , a condition called Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome . Appropriate treatment of localized infections can prevent septicemia. Pneumococcal vaccine is not part of the routine childhood immunization schedule. This will be prescribed by the health care provider and the type of antibiotic will be determined by the organism involved. Strong IV drugs called sympathomimetics are often needed to maintain the blood pressure.