How can I prevent infections if I do not have a working spleen?

If you do not have a spleen, or your spleen does not work properly, you have an increased risk of developing a serious infection very quickly. However, the rest of your immune system will still be able to cope with most infections.

The amount of risk depends on your age (children have a higher risk than adults), and whether or not you have another medical condition. Even then, you are not at a high risk of developing serious infection, just an increased risk over people who have a working spleen. Your risk of developing a serious infection would still be classed as low.

What can I do to reduce the risk?

1. Get immunized with vaccines against the most common infections:

• Pneumococcus (regular re-immunizations or boosters may be needed),
• Haemophilus Influenzae type B (HIB),
• Meningococcus, and
• Influenza (each autumn).

2. Be vigilant and recognize minor infections before they become serious. Make sure that you are familiar with the early signs of infection such as a fever, sore throat, cough, abdominal pain, or headache with a rash or drowsiness. See your doctor as soon as possible. Ask your family and friends to keep an eye on you for these early warning signs too.

3. Take regular preventative antibiotics - these will usually be offered to you:

• Until you are 16 years old,
• For 2 years if you have had your spleen removed (splenectomy),
• For life if your immune system is suppressed (immuno-suppressed).

4. Ask your doctor if you can keep a supply of broad spectrum antibiotics handy for your immediate use at the first sign of infection. You will still need to see your doctor as soon as possible, after starting the antibiotics.

5. Try to make sure that it stands out on all your medical notes that you do not have a working spleen. Always inform any doctors or nurses you consult.

6. Animal and tick bites can be dangerous. If you are bitten, start your broad spectrum antibiotics (if you have a supply) and see your doctor at once. Try to prevent tick bites by wearing long trousers and sleeves when walking in long grass and woodlands.

7. Avoid catching malaria (a tropical disease passed on by mosquitoes):

• If possible, avoid countries that have a high malaria risk
• Take prescribed anti-malarial drugs.
• Use mosquito nets and repellents.
• Take advice about traveling abroad.

8. Carry a splenectomy card or MedicAlert bracelet. This will inform doctors of your condition in the event of an emergency.

Remember, although there is a small risk of severe infection, by adopting these simple measures you can reduce the risk further.