DEE Caffari’s Vendée Globe campaign could be in jeopardy after she picked up a knee infection.

The 35-year-old from Titchfield warned she may not be able to continue the round the world race after reporting an inflamed left knee as she made her approach to the treacherous Southern Ocean.

Caffari was this afternoon in 15th position around 500 miles behind race leader Sébastien Josse.

“This is the type of thing that blood poisoning comes from,” she said.

“If it is blood poisoning then I can’t go on because if is spreads then it’s a massive risk.

“Ideally I need to rest, elevate and ice the knee but we need to be realistic in this environment.

“The good thing about sailing downwind is it’s easier to live on your feet and not your knees and I had chance today in the lighter airs to rest my leg.”

Caffari called team doctor Spike Briggs after discovering the inflammation while enjoying a final wash before the Southern Ocean leg of the race.

Dr Briggs prescribed a series of antibiotics to help ease the inflamation, common among sailors who spend a lot of time on their hands and knees in cramped conditions.

Andrew Roberts, Aviva Ocean Racing campaign director, added: “Dee has consulted with Dr Spike Briggs and she is going to be monitoring her knee over the next few days, sending regular updates back every 12 hours.

“The antibiotic takes around 48 hours to kick in so we’re going to be in regular communication with Dee throughout this time.

“With the Southern Ocean approaching we’ll make sure that Dee is confident her knee is better and she is prepared for the next stage of the race.”

Today Mike Golding had crept back to eighth after slipping from sixth over the weekend.

Brian Thompson was in 13th with Sam Davies close on his tail in 14th while Jonny Malbon was in 18th.