Clostridioides difficile, often referred to as C. diff, is a type of bacteria that can reside in the intestines and cause various gastrointestinal problems. These issues can range from mild diarrhea to more severe conditions like inflammation of the colon. The bacteria produce toxins that disrupt the normal function of the digestive system. This article explores whether C. diff can be transmitted from animals to humans.
Animals That Carry C. diff
C. diff is widely present in the environment and can be found in the gastrointestinal tracts of various animals, including household pets and livestock. Dogs and cats can carry C. diff, often without showing illness. Studies show prevalence in healthy dogs from 1.4% to 21%, with higher rates in puppies.
Livestock, such as cattle, pigs, horses, sheep, and poultry, also frequently carry C. diff. For example, C. diff has been reported in calves and adult cattle, and in pigs. Many of these animals are asymptomatic carriers, shedding bacteria into the environment without developing symptoms.
How C. diff Spreads from Animals to Humans
The primary route of C. diff transmission from animals to humans is through the fecal-oral pathway. This occurs when bacterial spores, which are hardy and can survive in the environment for extended periods, are ingested. Contact with contaminated feces or environments is a common scenario for transmission. For instance, handling infected animals, cleaning up pet waste, or touching contaminated surfaces in shared spaces can facilitate the spread of these spores.
While less common for direct animal-to-human transmission, consuming contaminated food products can also be a route of exposure. C. diff spores have been found in raw and cooked foods, including meat from pigs and beef cattle. Environmental contamination plays a role as C. diff spores can survive for up to five months on inanimate surfaces. Similar C. diff strains in animals and humans suggest potential interspecies transmission.
Protecting Yourself from C. diff from Animals
Practicing thorough hand hygiene reduces the risk of C. diff transmission from animals. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water after any contact with animals or their environments, especially before preparing or eating food. This is particularly important after cleaning pet waste or handling potentially contaminated surfaces.
Proper disposal of animal waste helps limit environmental contamination. Promptly clean up pet accidents and disinfect affected areas with a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water) if the surface allows. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting pet areas, such as bedding, litter boxes, or feeding areas, also minimizes the presence of C. diff spores. It is also advisable to avoid direct contact with sick animals or their bodily fluids, as they may be shedding more bacteria.