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Preventing Infections in Cancer Patients

Photo of a woman and a nurse

People receiving chemotherapy are at risk for developing an infection when their white blood cell count is low. White blood cells are the body’s main defense against infection. This condition, called neutropenia, is common after receiving chemotherapy. For patients with this condition, any infection can become serious quickly.

If you have cancer now or have had cancer in the past, you are at higher risk for complications from the flu. Learn what cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers should know about the flu.

Featured Resources

Fight Back! Get Your Flu Shot poster

Health care providers: Display our “Fight Back! Get Your Flu Shot” poster [PDF-1.5MB] in your office as a reminder for cancer patients.

Understanding Your Risk for Infection During Chemotherapy health tip sheet

Our “Understanding Your Risk for Infection During Chemotherapy” health tip sheet explains what an infection is and who is at risk.

Out of sight, out of mind ... not this time! Did you know one of the most dangerous side effects of chemotherapy cannot be seen?

In this blog post, Dr. Lisa Richardson shares what she tells her patients and friends when they ask about the side effects of chemotherapy.

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