Hello Kat97 and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear your mum will be starting chemotherapy soon and can understand you wanting to do all you can to look after her.

The chemotherapy team will go through the do's and don'ts with your mum to try and minimise infections but this isn't always in our full control, I'm afraid.

Basics such as regular hand washing, using separate towels, and making sure the house is kept as clean as possible will help to minimise infection in the home.

When your mum's blood counts are at their lowest this is when she will be more susceptible to picking up an infection, at times like this it may be beneficial for your mum to wear a mask if she needs to be out and about in busy environments, places such as shopping centres, supermarkets, cinema, etc.

It is also sensible to ask anyone due to visit, to meet up with your mum, who feels unwell in any way or who has a cough or cold to avoid contact until they are better. In the case that you feel unwell then try and keep a distance as best you can but as I say there are times when this is unavoidable.

As I say people having chemo will sometimes pick up an infection. In this case, it is important that your mum checks her temperature regularly and if she has any signs of infection she gets herself checked out and treated quickly.

I hope this is helpful and wish your mum all the best with her treatment.

Take care

Naomi