“It’s just a cold, I’ll be fine…”
But for someone with a weakened immune system, even a simple cold can become a ticket to the hospital.
A virus that most people simply brush off can turn into a life-threatening danger for those who are immunocompromised.
Today, we’ll take a closer look at why cancer patients and other immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible to infections, what risks they face, and how they can prevent them.
Why Are Immunocompromised People Vulnerable to Infections?
Being immunocompromised means having a weakened immune defense system.
This can happen for a variety of reasons:
- Chemotherapy: A significant drop in white blood cells, especially neutrophils that fight bacteria.
- Radiation therapy: Damage to the skin and mucosal barriers that act as the body’s first line of defense.
- Immunosuppressive drugs: Essential for organ transplant or autoimmune disease treatment but leave the body defenseless against pathogens.
- Poor nutrition and chronic illness: Reduced production of immune cells and weakened immune response.
As a result, the body struggles to fend off invading pathogens, and even bacteria or viruses that are harmless to healthy people can become fatal.
Types of Infections to Watch Out For
Being immunocompromised doesn’t mean you must live in isolation.
However, adopting a few habits can greatly reduce the risk of infections.
Daily Precautions
- Proper hand hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after going out, before and after meals, and after using the restroom.
- Wear a mask when going out: Use a KF94 or similar mask in public transport, hospitals, or crowded places.
- Avoid crowds: Stay away from crowded environments when possible and ensure good indoor ventilation.
- Food safety: Avoid raw meat, raw fish, and undercooked eggs.
- Pet care: Be cautious with cat litter, bird droppings, and other potential sources of opportunistic infections.
Vaccinations
- Influenza vaccine: Get vaccinated annually before the flu season.
- Pneumococcal vaccine: High-risk groups are advised to receive both PCV13 and PPSV23 sequentially.
- COVID-19 vaccine: Consult your physician regarding boosters and other recommended doses.
※ Live vaccines should only be administered under medical supervision.
For cancer patients, the 7–14 days after chemotherapy is known as the “neutropenic period,” when white blood cell counts are at their lowest.
During this time, extra caution is necessary:
- Avoid going out as much as possible.
- Minimize contact with outsiders.
- Family members should also wear masks and practice proper hand hygiene.
- Stay away from high-risk foods.
The Weaker the Immunity, the Stronger the Knowledge!
Infections are inevitable, but their impact can be minimized with the right knowledge and habits.
Understanding your condition, practicing preventive measures, and seeking medical care promptly are like keeping your “infection radar” always on.
Health is a right we can protect if we prepare wisely.
Take smart steps today to safeguard yourself and your loved ones.
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