How to stop C. difficile spreading

C.difficileinfections canbe passed onvery easily. You can reduce your risk of picking it up or spreading it by practising good hygiene, both at homeand in healthcare settings.

The following measures can help:

  • stay at home until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared up
  • wash your hands regularly with soap and water, particularly after going to the toiletand before eating use liquid rather than bar soap and don't use flannels or nail brushes
  • clean contaminated surfacessuch as the toilet, flush handle, light switches and door handleswith a bleach-based cleaner after each use
  • don't share towels and flannels
  • wash contaminated clothes and sheets separately from other washing at the highest possible temperature
  • when visiting someone in hospital,observe anyvisiting guidelines, avoid taking any children under the age of 12, and wash your hands with liquid soap and water when entering and leaving ward areas don't rely on alcohol hand gels, as they're not effective against C. difficile
  • avoid visiting hospitalif you're feeling unwell or have recently had diarrhoea

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Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018