How to protect against infection while undergoing cancer treatments

I recently talked with a former colleague; a retired surgeon.  I knew he was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer and had undergoing treatment.  I asked him how he is doing:  the good news is his treatment has been successful and he is in remission.  He looks healthy.  I was glad to see him doing well.

People undergoing chemotherapy deal with several potential side effects:  one involves the chemotherapy drugs which decrease a person’s white blood cells and their ability to fight off infection.  People going through chemotherapy (and their loved ones) can do several things to protect their health and prevent infections.  This begins with good handwashing with soap and water.  This sounds simple (and it is) but it is a huge protective practice.  More information can be found at http://www.preventcancerinfections.org/health-tip-sheet/basic-hygiene-practices

If you or someone you know is dealing with chemotherapy treatments, there is a helpful website from the centers for disease control (CDC) called 3 Steps toward preventing infection during cancer treatment.  Check it out at http://www.preventcancerinfections.org/health-tip-sheets