The dramatic rise in C. diff infection rates in the past decade is likely related to the emergence of a more virulent and more antibiotic-resistant strain of the bacteria than others, according to the authors. The strain is also associated with greater odds of severe disease than others.
The article points out improved hospital and community-wide antibiotic stewardship efforts to combat the spread of C. diff infections are called for by the CDC, the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America and the Infectious Diseases Society of America.
“Virtually all [C. diff] cases are healthcare related. The primary causes of CDI — antibiotic exposure and spore acquisition — occur in a variety of settings. C. diff infection onset and diagnosis can likewise happen in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. The current epidemiology of [C. diff] necessitates active participation from all segments of the healthcare community in a comprehensive approach to reduce the burden of [C. diff] through effective antibiotic stewardship and active measures to reduce spore transmission,” the authors conclude.
More articles on antibiotic resistance:
Current practices creating a ‘perfect storm’ for antibiotic resistance: 6 takeaways
AMA adopts policy for improved antibiotic resistance surveillance
Antibiotic stewardshipm 5 other components of effort to combat C. diff infections
