Researchers from the University of Texas examined 2.3 million cases of C. diff infections from 2001-2010. In the Northeast, there ware 8 CDI discharges per 1,000 total discharges in that timeframe. The Midwest followed with 6.4 CDI discharges per 1,000 total, then the South (5/1,000) and the West (4.8/1,000).
However, C. diff mortality was highest in the Midwest (7.3 percent).
Researchers also found that spring had the most cases of C. diff infections, with 6.2 CDI discharges per 1,000 total. Winter and summer came next (both at 5.9/1,000) with fall bringing up the rear (5.6/1,000).
“The peak incidence in the spring could be attributed to increased utilization of antibiotics in winter months,” the study authors wrote. “Prior studies have found a 1 to 2 month lag time between antibiotic exposure and the development of CDI.”
More articles on C. diff:
Antibiotic shortages could threaten patient lives, study finds
Hospitals aren’t doing all they can to prevent C. diff infections, survey finds
C. diff infections increase readmissions, lengths of stay
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