Clostridium Difficile
C. Diff is a bacterium that is present in the gut of up to 3% of healthy adults and 66% of infants. It is usually kept in check by "normal" bacteria in the intestine but when certain antibiotics disturb the balance of the bacteria in the gut C Diff can multiply rapidly. This produces toxins which cause illness.
C Diff produces spores that can live in the environment for a long time. Any surface, piece of equipment or furniture can harbour the spores. People become infected by touching contaminated surfaces.
The risk of cross infection increases when people have diarrhoea and when bathrooms and toilets are shared because the C Diff bacteria is shed by human waste.
Failing to wash hands properly after going to the toilet or after handling contaminated food can spread C Diff.
Symptoms of C Diff include mild to moderate diarrhoea, stomach cramps and tenderness, fever, loss of appetite and nausea. In severe cases patients can suffer ulceration and bleeding from the colon (Colitis). C Diff can be fatal.
C Diff outbreaks can occur in hospitals Hospital Staff should use disposable gloves and aprons when caring for infected patients. Affected patients should be segregated from others.
The most effective means of removing contaminated spores is to have a system of rigorous cleaning with warm water and detergent and good hand washing practice.
Alcohol gels should be used routinely by hospital staff between treating patients if hands are not visibly soiled. If hands are visibly soiled they must always be washed with soap and water first and then an alcohol gel.
C Diff was first identified in the
The latest C Diff outbreak occurred at Maidstone District General Hospital in October 2007.
Have you been infected with C Diff
If you or a relative have contracted C Diff whilst undergoing hospital treatment or at a Care Home you should contact Hugh James. Hugh James offers a dedicated local and National Service and which specialises in claims involving breaches of Hygiene Law having brought the landmark case on MRSA and running the public enquiry into the out-break of ecoli in South Wales.
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