Clostridioides difficile
Date issued: June 2026
Review date: June 2029
Leaflet section: Infection prevention and management
PDF: Clostridioides difficile.pdf [pdf] 195KB
What is Clostridioides difficile?
Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) is a bacterium that can live in the bowel (gut). Around 2-3% of adults carry it without any problems.
Sometimes, it can cause and lead to symptoms such as diarrhoea
How did I get C. difficile?
It is not always clear why some people develop C. difficile. However, it often happens when antibiotics or other treatments:
- upset the normal balance of bacteria in your gut.
This allows C. difficile to grow and produce toxins, which can cause diarrhoea.
How does C.difficile spread?
C.difficile can spread if good hygiene is not followed. It spreads:
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From person to person via hands
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By touching contaminated surfaces or equipment
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Through contact with infected diarrhoea and then touching your mouth
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get C.difficile, but some people are more at risk, including:
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People taking antibiotics
-
Older adults
-
People who are unwell or in hospital
If you have diarrhoea, you may be cared for in a single room to help protects others
What can you do?
You can help reduce the spread of infection by:
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Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water:
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After using the toilet
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Before eating and drinking
-
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Follow advice of staff
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Taking your antibiotics exactly as prescribed
Important: Alcohol hand gel does not kill C. difficile spores. Always use soap and water
How can we stop the spread?
We will take steps to reduce the risk of infection spreading, including:
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Encourage regular hand washing with soap and water
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Asking for a stool (faecal) sample if you have diarrhoea
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Prescribe appropriate treatment if required
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Using protective clothing such as aprons and gloves
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Increasing cleaning of your environment
What does it mean for you and your family?
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Visitors are usually allowed but must follow staff advice
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Visitors may be asked to wash their hands and wear protective clothing
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After you go home:
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Continue and complete any antibiotics as prescribed
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Maintain good hand hygiene
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If your symptoms return after discharge:
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Contact your GP promptly
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Take any information cards given to you to healthcare appointments
When should you seek advice?
Speak to a healthcare professional if:
If your symptoms return after discharge:
-
Contact your GP promptly
-
Take any information cards given to you to healthcare appointments
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
-
01752 439694
