When a child undergoing cancer treatment is immunocompromised, maintaining health during the winter can be incredibly challenging. While the cold alone doesn’t cause sickness, staying healthy requires a proactive and comprehensive approach. Here’s what you need to know!

Why do we get sick in winter?

We call it a “cold,” but the temperature outside only plays a nominal role in getting sick. We get ill more frequently in winter for various reasons, including increased indoor crowding, less humidity, indoor heating drying out our protective mucous membranes, poor ventilation, decreased sunlight (and vitamin D), and improved virus survival. 

Dressing appropriately is essential, but the cold alone won’t get you sick. The problem, really, is that kids with cancer are much more vulnerable to these seasonal maladies. But there are steps we can take to keep our kids healthy!

10 Preventative Steps to Stay Healthy While Immunocompromised

Infection Prevention

#1 – Hygiene Practices

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Many people neglect hand washing during the winter. 
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.
• Avoid touching the face with unwashed hands, especially the eyes, nose, and mouth.

#2 – Vaccinations

Ensure household members and caregivers receive annual flu vaccines and are up to date on other vaccinations, like Tdap. Discuss with the child’s oncologist which vaccines are safe to receive. Even if they can’t be vaccinated, those in regular close contact can be…and that reduces their chances of getting ill!

#3 – Reduce Exposure to Germs

• Limit close contact with sick individuals.
• Avoid crowded places, particularly during peak flu season.
• Use masks for the child and household members in high-risk environments.

#4 – Environmental Hygiene

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and beloved toys.
• Disinfect surfaces, especially on community-use items like shopping carts.
• Use a humidifier to maintain proper indoor humidity, reducing respiratory irritation and the survival of viruses.
• Regularly change bedding to avoid allergen buildup and bacteria growth. Showering before bed helps, too!

Nutritional Support

#5 – Eat Immune-Boosting Foods

• Offer a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Include foods high in vitamins C, D, and zinc (citrus fruits, fortified cereals, nuts).
• Include vitamins and supplements as approved by your child’s oncologist.

#6 – Hydrate

Encourage drinking plenty of water to keep mucous membranes hydrated, which helps fend off germs. Proper hydration also improves immune function by allowing efficient transport of immune cells. In the simplest terms, dehydration impairs organ function. If we’re not running in tip-top shape, it makes us more vulnerable to illness.

#7 – Safe Food Practices

• Avoid raw or undercooked meat to prevent foodborne illnesses.
• Be mindful of expiration dates. Don’t chance it!
• Avoid buffet settings. You don’t know the hygiene practices of the restaurant, customers, or how long the food has been sitting out.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Use different cutting boards and knives for other foods to avoid cross-contamination.
• Avoid unpasteurized products.
• Don’t allow perishable food to sit out at room temperature, even to thaw. Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator.
• Properly and swiftly store any leftovers.

Physical and Emotional Well-Being

#8 – Exercise

Use low-intensity, age-appropriate physical activity like walking or yoga to improve circulation and energy levels. Your child’s oncologist can recommend appropriate exercises. Physical fitness is often a key factor in how well people bounce back from illness.

#9 – Adequate Rest

Prioritize consistent sleep routines to help the body recover and stay strong. Sleep helps generate new antibodies and promotes immune cell function. Good quality sleep fends off sickness and improves recovery time.

Family and Community Involvement

#10 – Educate Family and Friends

As much as we may want to insulate ourselves from people to avoid getting sick, it’s not always possible. The holidays, after all, are often times for gathering together! You can still take steps to stay safe and healthy even when people come over. Share guidelines with visitors, emphasizing handwashing, masking up, and staying away if they’re unwell. Keep playdates virtual or with trusted people during high-risk times.

We can’t always avoid getting sick. Some things are beyond our control and foresight. That doesn’t mean your immunocompromised child is at the mercy of every virus and infection. By combining these preventative measures, healthy habits, and vigilant care, families can significantly reduce risks and keep their children as healthy as possible throughout the winter…and beyond!