November 4, 2009

Deadly Stomach Bug Making Inroads Outside Hospitals

By Kelley Luckstein

A potentially deadly stomach infection is on the rise outside of hospital settings, especially among the elderly, researchers warn. The germ that causes the condition, known as Clostridium difficile, can create serious symptoms, including diarrhea and an inflammation of the colon, that can be fatal. The infection can be difficult to treat because the bacteria have become immune to some drugs…

 

Recent reports have shown increasing incidence and severity of C. difficile infection, especially in the older population," Dr. Darrell Pardi, a Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist and senior author of a study on the situation, said in a Mayo news release. "Our study examines why the cases are on the rise and who is getting the infection."

 

HealthDay, 11/3/09

 

Additional coverage:

US News & World Report

Tags: clostridium difficile, GI

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