Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile)

What is C. difficile? 

C. difficile is a bacteria that causes diarrhea and colitis (an inflammation of the colon). 

What happens when one is infected with C. difficile? 

Patients will develop infectious diarrhea and a course of antibiotics is needed to kill the bacteria in your gut.  

Who is at risk of contracting C. difficile? 

• People who are recently on antibiotics course
• People who recently stay in a hospital or nursing home 
• People with weakened immune systems, such as people with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplant patients taking immunosuppressive drugs
• People who were previously infected with C. difficile  
  

How long should I be isolated? 

You should remain in isolation until your diarrhea has stopped for at least 48 hours.

Can family members visit me? 

Yes, they can. They have to wash their hands with soap and water before and after visiting. Alcohol-based hand rub does not work on C. difficile. 

Why do healthcare workers wear gloves and gowns around me? 

C. difficile can be transmitted through contact from one patient to another. Healthcare workers are required to wear personal protection to prevent transmission. 

How can I care for myself at home? 

You can practise good personal hygiene and hand hygiene at home. Remember to wash your hands after using the bathroom.