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During chemotherapy your risk of infection is higher than normal.

This is because chemotherapy reduces the number of your white blood cells,

the cells that help defend your body against infection.

When your white blood cells are low you’ll need to take precautions to reduce your risk of infection.

Here are some tips to help you reduce your risk of infection during your treatment.

Your doctor or nurse may have some specific advice for you as well.

Make sure you always wash your hands before preparing or eating food

and after you’ve been out, or you’ve used the toilet.

Use soap and warm water and don’t share your towel.

Cook your food thoroughly and don’t reheat it.

Try to avoid foods that could carry and increased risk of infection,

such as takeaways, shellfish, soft cheeses, pâté and live yoghurts.

Eat as healthily as you can with plenty of fruit and vegetables

but remember to peel your fruit before eating it.

Keep away from people with colds or infections if you can

and always let your doctor know if you’ve been in touch with anyone who has chicken pox.

It’s fine to go out but it’s best to avoid crowds.

If you need to travel or pop to the shops, try to do it at a time when you know it will be quiet.

Pets can be a great source of comfort, but be careful around them when you’re receiving chemotherapy.

Wash your hands after touching them and ask someone else to change their litter trays or cages if you can.

Look out for any signs of infection, such as a cough, sore throat, feeling cold and shivery

or a temperature above 38 degrees Celsius.

If you have a high temperature or suddenly feel unwell get in touch with your hospital straight away.

When your white blood cells are low an infection can be serious and you’ll need to be treated with antibiotics.

Once your chemotherapy has finished your white blood cells will get back to normal.

For information, help, or if you just want a chat,

Call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 00 00 or visit macmillan.org.uk