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Infections

Children receiving treatment for cancer are at increased risk of infection.  Chemotherapy and radiation destroy the white blood cells that help fight infection in the body.  The weakened immune system can no longer keep the bacteria that is normally present in the child's mouth and bowels in check.

Infections can be dangerous for children with cancer, and the best way to prevent infection is to practice good hygiene.  Good and frequent handwashing is one of the easiest and most effective way to help decrease infections in your child and prevent the spread of infection to others.

How to wash your hands properly


  1. Turn on the tap and wet your hands.
  2. Apply soap and scrub vigorously for at least 15 seconds.
  3. Scrub your palms, the backs of your hands, in between the fingers and underneath the fingernails.
  4. Rinse soap off and dry hands with a paper towel.
  5. Turn the tap off using the paper towel.
Refer to the section titled "Low white blood cell count (leukopenia)" of the Parent Handbook, Chapter 5, for more information on preventing and managing infections.

Page updated January 2006