Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) is a germ that causes diarrhea and inflammation of the colon. It is estimated to impact almost half a million people in the United States each year, and an estimated 29,300 deaths.
Together with our partners, CDC is working year-round to protect patients and reduce C. diff infections. This C. diff Awareness Month, we encourage you to check out what CDC is doing to raise awareness about the importance of protecting yourself and your family and stopping the spread of this deadly infection.
Information for Healthcare Professionals about C. diffInappropriate antibiotic prescribing puts patients at risk for C. diff infections (CDI). More than half of all hospitalized patients might get an antibiotic at some point during their hospital stay, but studies have shown that 30 to 50% of antibiotics prescribed in hospitals are unnecessary or incorrect.
Prescribe and use antibiotics carefully. You can inquire about your patient’s past history of C. diff infection before prescribing.
Other important interventions include:
- assessing patients for CDI risk factors
- timely testing of patients with compatible signs and symptoms
- using contact isolation precautions, including wearing gloves and a gown for patients with unexplained diarrhea
- following hand hygiene practices, including before seeing a patient and after removal of gloves
- daily and terminal cleaning of patient room
For more information and resources, visit the CDC website.
