What is c. difficile?

Clostridium difficile, also known as C. difficile, is a bacterium that can cause infections that range from mild to severe, including diarrhea and inflammation of the colon (colitis). The bacterium is spread through feces, typically in healthcare settings where people are in close contact. Symptoms of a C. difficile infection include diarrhea (often watery and with a strong odor), fever, loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal pain and tenderness. The elderly, those using antibiotics, and people living in long-term care facilities are at higher risk for C. difficile infections. Treatment options include antibiotics, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation. Prevention measures include good hand hygiene, proper cleaning of surfaces and facilities, and careful use of antibiotics.