Infectious disease prophylaxis and treatment in cancer patients, with particular emphasis on COVID-19. Interdisciplinary position statement of Polish experts.

Infectious diseases constitute a significant burden for cancer patients. This became particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to cancer itself and its treatment, the course of infectious diseases in oncology patients is often unpredictable and may negatively affect them. Preventing infectious diseases through a wide range of vaccinations may help maintain the continuity of treatment and constitute an element of holistic patient care. Testing patients with symptoms or suspected infections allows proper treatment and may avoid unfavorable consequences. More education on preventing and treating infectious diseases is necessary to improve the standard of cancer care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]