Simple Ways to Avoid Bacteria and Viruses During Immunotherapy

You can take some simple steps to keep germs at bay and avoid infections while you're getting immunotherapy.

Wear shoes as much as possible, whether you're at home or on the go. That makes germs less likely to cause infections in cracks or on the skin of your feet.

Next, remember Mom's advice. Wash your hands a lot. Use warm water and soap, and scrub for at least 20 seconds.

It's extra important to wash them before and after you handle food, as well as after you sneeze, blow your nose, or use the bathroom.

Clean around your home, too. Use moist disinfecting wipes to clean surfaces that get touched a lot, such as doorknobs, countertops, and tables.

And if you have a pet, ask a loved one to handle the dirty work of poop scooping or litter changing while you're going through treatment.

What else can you do to avoid germs? Keep your distance from sick people. Don't share towels or drinking glasses with anybody. And talk to your doctor before you make plans to travel.