Anyone can contract C-diff infection. However, the elderly and people with certain medical problems have the greatest chance of contracting severe C-diff infections. Those who have been taking antibiotics are also at a greater risk for contracting the illness. Antibiotics kill the normal intestinal flora (normal gut bugs) that serve as protection against C-diff infection. It is estimated that 50 percent of prescribed antibiotics are totally unnecessary and can do you more harm than good.
If you or a loved one is showing C-diff signs and symptoms, talk to your health care provider. He or she may stop or change your antibiotics, and test your watery stool for C-diff. In many cases this will clear up without further treatment. Always ask your physician if the antibiotics they prescribe are absolutely necessary, and don’t pressure your provider for antibiotics if he or she does not prescribe them.
Remember antibiotics don’t kill viruses, like those that cause the seasonal flu, so get your annual flu vaccination.
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The enclosed material was prepared and assembled by DFWHC Foundation Hospital Engagement Network, under contract with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Partnership for Patients Initiative. Contract #HHSM-500-2012-0025 Hospital Engagement Network .