C Difficile CDif Compensation Claims

As publicized over recently, Clostridium difficile or C difficile for short has become the most recent epidemic to reach health care services.

Clostridium difficile is a spore forming bacterium which is present as one of the 'normal' bacteria in the gut of up to 3% of healthy adults. Clostridium difficile rarely causes problem in healthy adults, as it is kept in check by the normal bacterial population of the intestine. It is only when certain antibiotics disturb the balance of bacteria in the gut, will it multiply and produce toxins, which then cause illness.

The effects of this illness vary. Some may experience diarrhoea, while others may suffer with severe inflammation of the bowel. Other symptoms can include fever, loss of appetite, nausea and abdominal pain or tenderness.

C difficile is a liable to transfer from one person to the next. This is so since those suffering from a C Difficile associated disease shed spores in their feaces. The disease is most commonly spread from the hands of healthcare staff and other people who come into contact with infected patients or with surfaces contaminated with the bacteria or its spores e.g. floors, bedpans and toilets.  Elderly patients over the age of 65 are at a greater risk of contracting the illness.