With immunosuppression, your ability to fight infection is decreased; this is particularly so in the first few months when the doses of immunosuppressive medications are relatively high.
Common sense precautions need to be taken: avoid exposure to sources of infection, such as people with the flu and colds, children with chicken pox or other viral infections, dirty and dusty buildings (buildings under construction or destruction), and large compact crowds at least initially. Normal hygiene precautions should help prevent infection and no extra measures need to be taken.
Care of your skin is very important. If a cut or graze does occur, cleanse the area and apply a clean, dry dressing or plaster and watch for signs of infection. Should healing be prolonged and/or pain, swelling, redness, or infection be noted, you should notify your GP or the Transplant Team. Symptoms of cystitis (urinary tract infection), sore throat, cold sores or mouth sores should also be reported to your GP or your Transplant doctor.
As your general health improves, the dosages of your immunosuppressive medications are usually reduced, which means that you will regain resistance to most infections.
Pay careful attention to personal hygiene. This involves regular showering and keeping your mouth clean, regular brushing of your teeth after each meal and last thing at night with a soft toothbrush.
Avoid changing cat litter boxes or bird cages; they can be major sources of infection
Wash your hands as often as possible