1615P The association of social distancing and obligatory face masks during COVID-19 era with the rates of febrile neutropenia in patients with solid tumors receiving antineoplastic therapy

Abstract

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a major complication of anti-neoplastic therapy, with significant morbidity and mortality. While granulocytes colony stimulating factors (G-CSF) and hand sanitation are proven preventive measurements, facial mask is not routinely recommended. COVID-19 pandemic led to obligatory social distancing and use of masks in public places. We aimed to assess whether these preventive measurements were associated with reduced rate of FN in patients receiving chemotherapy.