Epidemiology and potential preventative measures for viral infections in children with malignancy and those undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation

In pediatric patients with malignancy and those receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplants, bacterial and fungal infections have been the focus of fever and neutropenia episodes for decades. However, improved diagnostic capabilities have revealed viral pathogens as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Because of limited effective antiviral therapies, prevention of viral infections is paramount. Pre‐exposure and post‐exposure prophylaxis and antiviral suppressive therapeutic approaches are reviewed. Additionally, infection control practices specific to this patient population are discussed. A comprehensive approach utilizing each of these can be effective at reducing the negative impact of viral infections. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 11–15. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.