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Low blood counts and infection risk (neutropenia)

Many cancer treatments lower blood cells made in the bone marrow. Low white cells (neutropenia) raise your infection risk. Low red cells (anemia) cause tiredness. Low platelets raise bleeding risk.

When it happens

With many chemo drugs, white blood cell counts are lowest about 1 to 2 weeks after treatment, then recover. Your team will tell you when to be most careful.

What helps at home

Wash your hands often and ask visitors to do the same.
Stay away from people who are sick and from crowds when your counts are low.
Have a working thermometer at home.
Ask your team about vaccines, including the flu shot.
Cook meat and eggs fully and wash fruits and vegetables.
Use a soft toothbrush and electric razor if platelets are low.

Call your care team now if you have:

Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills. This can be an emergency, so call right away, even at night
Signs of infection: cough, burning when you pee, redness or pus
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Extreme tiredness or shortness of breath

Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain or signs of stroke.

Drugs on this site linked to low blood counts

Find support

CancerCare: Free counseling, support groups and financial help
Cancer Support Community: Support groups, a helpline and the MyLifeLine online community
Imerman Angels: Free one-on-one matching with a survivor or caregiver mentor
American Cancer Society: 24/7 helpline (1-800-227-2345), rides to treatment, lodging and information

Common questions

What are neutropenia precautions?

Hand washing, avoiding sick people and crowds, food safety and calling for any fever.

What is a normal neutrophil level?

Your team will tell you your number and what it means for you.

Written by the Cancer Side Effects Guide team from FDA labels and leading cancer centers. Not medical advice. · Last updated: October 15, 2026 · How we write

Not medical advice. This page is general information to help you talk with your care team. It can't replace advice from your doctor or nurse. If you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher during treatment, or any symptom that worries you, call your care team now. In an emergency, call 911.