Infection

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During your chemotherapy treatments, your body will become more susceptible to infection because your white blood cell count will be lower. Visit your doctor regularly so he or she can:

• Check your white blood cell count many times during treatment
• Place you on substances called colony-stimulating factors that stimulate the production of blood cells if your count is low

At home, you can try these ways to combat infections:

• Wash your hands before you eat, after using the bathroom, and after touching animals. Wash them often throughout the day.
• Stay away from people who have the flu, a cold, or any illness you could catch.
• Do not cut or tear the cuticles of your nails, be careful not to nick yourself when shaving (use an electric shaver instead of a razor), and do not squeeze or scratch pimples.
• Clean any cuts immediately with warm water, soap, and an antiseptic.
• Avoid any contact with litter boxes, birdcages, or fish tanks.
• Do not eat any of the following foods raw: fish, seafood, meat, or eggs.
• Do not receive any immunizations unless you check with your doctor first. Also stay away from children who have received "live virus" vaccines, since they may be contagious to people with low blood cell counts.
• Bathe or shower every day and use lotion or oil to soften your skin if it has become dry.