Symptoms of infection

Infections can sometimes be life threatening. A fever may be the first or only sign of an infection. But with some infections, you may have other symptoms without a fever.

Treating an infection early can stop it becoming a more serious problem. Tell your healthcare team immediately about any symptoms. Even if it turns out that you don’t have an infection it’s better to find out as soon as possible.

What you can do

You can’t always prevent an infection. The most important thing you can do is contact your advice line, or depending on your symptoms – call 999 or go to A&E. But there are things you can do to help yourself and reduce your risk of getting an infection.

Before Treatment

• Have a dental check.

• Buy a thermometer and make sure you and your friends and family know how to use it.

• Talk to your healthcare team about vaccines you should have. For example, the flu vaccine and Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine.

• Make sure you and your family and friends are familiar with the symptoms of an infection and sepsis. Let everyone know about the advice line.

Your hospital may give you an alert card explaining the symptoms and what to do.

During treatment

• Try to avoid people who are unwell or have an infection. For example, people with chest infections, diarrhoea, and chicken pox.

• Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush at least twice a day and preferably after every meal and at bedtime.

• Tell your doctor if you have any ulcers or pain anywhere in your mouth.

• Wash your hands before eating or handling food, after using the toilet, and after contact with animals.

• Protect your skin from scratches. You can do this by wearing gloves and keeping your arms and legs covered when you are gardening. If you do cut or graze your skin, wash the area thoroughly with warm water and soap. You can put antiseptic cream over the area and cover it with a plaster. 

• Store, prepare, and cook food following the correct instructions.

Read about possible infections during or after cancer treatment

Don’t be afraid to live your life as normal. You do not need to stop seeing family and friends unless they have an infection or feel unwell. You don't need to avoid crowded places unless specifically advised to do so by your healthcare team.

Treating an infection

Treatment depends on the type of infection you have. We have a section on treating fever and infection. 

Get more information on treating fever and infection