A 56-year-old woman lost all four limbs after contracting severe sepsis believed to have originated from a dog licking her, requiring 32 weeks of hospitalization and surviving six cardiac arrests that nearly claimed her life.

Medical Crisis Unfolds

Manjit Sangha’s ordeal began with what appeared to be a routine interaction with a dog. The infection quickly escalated into life-threatening sepsis, a condition where the body’s immune system overreacts to infection and begins attacking its own organs. Medical professionals at the hospital treating Sangha reportedly believed she would not survive the multiple organ failures and cardiac episodes that followed. The severity of the infection ultimately required amputation of all four limbs to save her life.

A 52-year-old UK woman lost all four limbs after developing severe sepsis, reportedly triggered by bacteria entering through a small cut after her dog licked her.

Manjit Sangha fell critically ill within 24 hours — suffering multiple cardiac arrests and spending 32 weeks in… pic.twitter.com/2DmQ1H3X5Y

— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 24, 2026

Sepsis affects more than 1.7 million Americans annually and kills approximately 270,000 people each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The condition can develop rapidly from seemingly minor infections, making early recognition and treatment critical. Sangha’s case demonstrates how quickly bacterial infections can progress from minor exposure to life-threatening complications requiring extreme medical intervention.

Understanding Sepsis Risks

While rare, infections from dog saliva can occur when bacteria enter through cuts, scratches, or compromised skin. Dogs carry various bacteria in their mouths, including Capnocytophaga, which can cause serious infections in humans with weakened immune systems. Most healthy individuals can safely interact with dogs without risk, but immunocompromised people face greater dangers from animal-related bacterial exposure. Medical experts emphasize the importance of proper wound care after any animal contact.

Recovery and Prevention

Sangha’s survival after such severe complications represents remarkable medical intervention and personal resilience. Her case highlights the critical importance of recognizing sepsis symptoms, which include fever, rapid heart rate, confusion, and difficulty breathing. Medical professionals stress that immediate treatment with antibiotics and supportive care can prevent the organ failure that leads to amputations. The incident serves as a reminder for pet owners to maintain good hygiene practices and seek prompt medical attention for any unusual symptoms following animal contact, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions.