Precautions for CGD patients

Fungi

CGD patients are especially at risk for unusual fungal infections. The following list can help you eliminate unnecessary exposure to fungi.

1. Do not work with or around mulch, hay, wood chips, grass clippings, or other yard waste.
2. Do not go barefoot outside.
3. Do not use playgrounds with wood chips under the play areas. Choose playgrounds with plain dirt or pea gravel.
4. Stay out of barns, caves and other dusty or damp areas.
5. If you must garden, wear a surgical mask to filter the air.
6. Don’t breathe over spray from waterfalls.
7. Do not repot house plants--mold frequently grows in the soil.
8. If you have fresh cut flowers, add a teaspoon of bleach to the water to prevent mold and algae. Have someone without CGD change the water in the vase daily.
9. Do not renovate old buildings or go inside a newly renovated building until it has been thoroughly cleaned.
10. New construction should also be avoided, due to the dust generated both from the lumber and raw dirt.
11. Do not rip up or replace carpet or tile. Have the rooms cleaned thoroughly with disinfectant (bleach) before living in them. Do not sleep in the building until this has been done.
12. Pets are fine, but do not use wood shaving as bedding (for either large or small animals). Make sure the pets are up to date on all recommended shots. Keep their water dishes and bedding clean.
13. If you use a vaporizer, empty it daily and wash with bleach to prevent mold.
14. Wash all cuts and scrapes thoroughly with soap and water; follow with Betadine and a final rinse with hydrogen peroxide. Any redness or soreness around the area, pus, or fever should be reported to your physician as soon as it occurs.
15. Fever, especially if accompanied by a cough, should always be reported immediately to your physician.