<b>How can I help prevent infections?</b> 

Wash your hands often during the day. Be sure to wash them before you eat, after you use the bathroom, and after touching animals. Clean your rectal area gently but thoroughly after each bowel movement. Ask your doctor or nurse for advice if the area becomes irritated or if you have hemorrhoids. Also, check with your doctor before using enemas or suppositories. (See the section "Constipation.") 

Stay away from people who have illnesses you can catch, such as a cold, the flu, measles, or chicken pox. Try to avoid crowds. For example, go shopping or to the movies when the stores or theaters are least likely to be busy. Stay away from children who recently have received "live virus" vaccines such as chicken pox and oral polio, since they may be contagious to people with a low blood cell count. Call your doctor or local health department if you have any questions. 

Do not cut or tear the cuticles of your nails. Be careful not to cut or nick yourself when using scissors, needles, or knives. Use an electric shaver instead of a razor to prevent breaks or cuts in your skin. Maintain good mouth care. (See the section "Mouth, Gum and Throat Problems.") Do not squeeze or scratch pimples. Take a warm (not hot) bath, shower, or sponge bath every day. Pat your skin dry using a light touch. Do not rub too hard. Use lotion or oil to soften and heal your skin if it becomes dry and cracked. Clean cuts and scrapes right away and daily until healed with warm water, soap, and an antiseptic. Avoid contact with animal litter boxes and waste, bird cages, and fish tanks. Avoid standing water, for example, bird baths, flower vases, or humidifiers. Wear protective gloves when gardening or cleaning up after others, especially small children. Do not get any immunizations, such as flu or pneumonia shots, without checking with your doctor first. Do not eat raw fish, seafood, meat, or eggs. 
