The infection, Clostridium difficile, (C-diff) grows in the colon and is known to
cause diarrhea and colitis-type symptoms. When it grows in spores in feces,
it is difficult to destroy. It is resistant to household cleaners and antibacterial
soaps. It is also resistant to some antibiotics usually used for intestinal problems,
since it appears to work against the good colon bacteria. Instead, the C-diff
increases.

In Atlanta, Georgia, more than 10,000 cases were reported last year. It had
rarely been reported before 2000. Research is being published in the June issue
of Emerging Infectious Diseases.

In Florida, where there is a huge population of older residents, C-diff is raising
its ugly head. Doctors are looking for the symptoms, closely, so that inappropriate
antibiotics are not used.

C-diff is not only a problem here in the U.S., Canada has reported thousands of
cases, as well.

If you are experiencing gastrointestinal problems, discuss your symptoms
with your doctor. Ask about C-diff.

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