Clostridioides difficile, commonly known as C. diff, is a highly transmittable infection that leads to severe inflammation of the colon and results in watery diarrhea. If left untreated, it can lead to a serious complication known as toxic megacolon.
Approximately 250,000 individuals in the United States are affected by C. diff annually. It has a relapse rate of up to 1 in 4 within eight weeks, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems or those who have taken antibiotics.
The bacteria that cause C. diff exist in feces, soil, and water. They can spread easily and survive for extended periods on various surfaces. Infection can occur through contact with contaminated surfaces and subsequent ingestion if proper hand hygiene is not practiced.
Protect yourself and others from getting a C. diff infection in a healthcare setting
Patients in healthcare facilities are at higher risk of contracting C. diff infections. However, steps can be taken to minimize the spread, such as ensuring that everyone practices proper hand hygiene and allowing cleaning staff access to patient environments.
Furthermore, patients diagnosed with C. diff should not share a room with non-infected individuals and should request to be moved if their roommate contracts the infection.
Stop the spread of C. diff at home
It’s vital to take precautionary measures even at home to reduce the risk of spreading C. diff, especially with regards to bathroom usage, cleanliness, and personal hygiene.
Steps to mitigate risks include using separate bathrooms if available, cleaning surfaces with a bleach-based cleaner, and ensuring proper hand hygiene, among others.
This educational resource was created with support from
Seres Therapeutics and Nestle Health Science.
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