1/9/2026 Public Health Education Topic: C. Diff

Health Department
15 minutes ago
1 min read

Per CDC:

Key points

C. diff is a germ that causes diarrhea and colitis (an inflammation of the colon) and can be life-threatening.
C. diff can affect anyone. Most cases of C. diff infection occur when you've been taking antibiotics or not long after you've finished the antibiotic course.
Talk with a healthcare professional about your risk for developing C. diff.

Symptoms

Diarrhea
Fever
Stomach tenderness or pain
Loss of appetite
Nausea

Complications

Common

Dehydration
Inflammation of the colon, known as colitis

Rare

Serious intestinal condition, such as toxic megacolon
Sepsis, the body's extreme response to an infection
Death

Prevention

Any time antibiotics are used, they can cause side effects, including C. diff infection. Take antibiotics only when you need them. Talk to a healthcare professional about the best treatment for your illness.

Keep Reading: Healthy Habits: Antibiotic Do's and Don'ts

Reduce the spread of C. diff by washing your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom and before you eat. You can take steps to reduce your risk of C. diff infection.

Keep Reading: Preventing C. diff

To learn more please visit: About C. diff | C. diff | CDC