Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) is a bacterium that can cause severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon, known as colitis. While often associated with healthcare settings, this infection can spread within a household. Understanding how C. diff transmits and implementing preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of it affecting family members.
Understanding C. diff Contagion
C. diff primarily spreads through the fecal-oral route, meaning the bacteria’s spores are ingested after contact with contaminated feces, surfaces, or objects. These spores are remarkably resilient, allowing them to survive on environmental surfaces for extended periods.
Antibiotic use is a significant risk factor for C. diff infection because these medications disrupt the natural balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. When the healthy gut flora is disturbed, C. diff can multiply unchecked and produce toxins, leading to symptoms. While any antibiotic can lead to C. diff infections, some classes are more commonly associated with it.
Protecting Your Household from C. diff
Rigorous hand hygiene is important for preventing the spread of C. diff within the home. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water is more effective than alcohol-based hand sanitizers against C. diff spores. This should be done every time after using the bathroom and before eating, and caregivers should also wash their hands after contact with an infected individual.
Environmental cleaning plays a role in reducing transmission. C. diff spores can be difficult to eliminate, so regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces with bleach-containing cleaners is recommended. Focus on frequently touched items like doorknobs, light switches, toilet flushers, and sink handles. If possible, a dedicated bathroom for the infected individual can help limit spread, or the shared bathroom should be thoroughly cleaned with bleach products after each use.
When handling laundry from an infected person, it is advisable to wash items separately using hot water and detergent. Bleach can be added if the fabric allows. Caregivers should consider wearing gloves when handling bodily fluids and always wash their hands immediately afterward.
Identifying C. diff in Family Members
Family members should be aware of the symptoms that may indicate a C. diff infection. The most common symptom is watery diarrhea, typically occurring at least three times a day for several days. This diarrhea can range from mild to severe.
Other symptoms include abdominal pain and cramping, which can be mild or severe. Individuals may also experience fever, nausea, and a loss of appetite. While symptoms often appear during or shortly after antibiotic therapy, they can also emerge days to weeks after exposure or after stopping antibiotics.
Steps if C. diff Spreads
If a family member develops symptoms suggestive of C. diff, contacting a healthcare provider promptly is important for diagnosis and treatment. A healthcare professional will likely request a stool sample for specific testing to confirm the presence of C. diff toxins. It is helpful to inform the doctor about the household exposure to C. diff.
Treatment for C. diff typically involves specific antibiotics such as vancomycin or fidaxomicin. If the individual was already taking another antibiotic, the healthcare provider may advise stopping it if it is safe to do so. Continuing rigorous hygiene and cleaning practices remains important to prevent further spread within the household, even after a new diagnosis. Supportive care, including maintaining hydration, is also important, especially with frequent diarrhea.