For Further Information Please Call
585-602-0738
585-602-0738
FOR PATIENTS
WHAT IS C. dIFF ?
Clostridium difficile (C. difficile or C. diff) is a gram positive, spore-forming anaerobic bacteria found in soil and the environment.
WHY IS C. dIFF DANGEROUS?
C. difficile is one of the leading causes of healthcare-associated infections.
Infection can cause prolonged diarrheal illness and can lead to more severe conditions including pseudomembranous colitis, toxic megacolon, and death.
WHO CAN BECOME INFECTED?
Groups at high risk for C. difficile infection include the elderly, the immunocompromised, and those with a history of antibiotic use.
C. difficile infection is becoming more common among people in the community with no previous healthcare exposure as well.
HOW DOES INFECTION SPREAD?
The bacteria and its spores are transmitted via the fecal-oral route (through stool, especially diarrhea). Spores may be able to survive in the environment for many months.
Education is the first step
to prevention
to prevention
University of Rochester Medical CenterPhone: 585-602-0738
Copyright © Rochester Patient Safety Collaborative 2024 - All rights reserved
Web Design by Scriptable Solutions