PwCF carry some bacteria in their lungs, and these bacteria can sometimes spread to others with CF. Because of this, standard safety precautions should always be followed whenever people with CF are around each other.
When it comes to social situations, the main risks come from being in close physical contact, being close enough to talk face-to-face, or spending long periods together — for example, staying overnight under the same roof. This means that events like the CFI National Conference, the CFI International Walk, the One in 1,000 Campaign, regional meetings, launches, or other CFI gatherings all need to consider these risks. It’s best to take part in ways that don’t involve direct contact, such as through video calls, online forums, or by joining activities run by groups that don’t include other people with CF.
Your CF doctor plays a key role in your health and should help you manage infection risks both in hospital and during your everyday activities.
There are three types of bacteria that are considered high-risk for people with CF:
- Burkholderia cepacia complex
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
- Multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDR)
Medical advice states that people with CF should avoid close contact with other people with CF. It iss also important to stay away from people if they currently have a chest infection or other respiratory conditions.
