Over time, CF patients' lungs become filled with bacteria from the environment. People without CF are normally not affected by these bacteria, but the bacteria can be transferred between CF patients.

Everyone breathes in bacteria, but most people are protected from infection by a thin blanket of mucus inside the lungs that traps bacteria. But the thick, sticky mucus in the lungs of CF patients allows the bacteria to survive. Bacteria can also change so that medicine can no longer get rid of it.

Infection control is about how to prevent getting and spreading bacteria. The best thing you can do is wash your hands often with soap and water. Cleaning your nebulizer and other equipment completely can also prevent the spread of bacteria.

Also, avoid coming in close contact with other CF patients. Coughing allows droplets carrying bacteria to leave the lungs of CF patients. But because these droplets do not travel more than 3 feet, you can protect yourself by standing at least 3 to 6 feet away from other CF patients.