HAMILTON, Ont. - An outbreak of C. difficile has been declared at the Charlton Campus of St. Joseph's Healthcare in Hamilton.

The hospital is reporting a total of 11 confirmed hospital-associated cases of the intestinal bug, which have been isolated in different units at the Charlton Campus.

In a news release, the hospital says it is working to full capacity to prevent the transmission of the infectious disease, including following a strict hand hygiene policy for staff, patients and visitors.

Infected patients have been placed in isolation rooms which are double-cleaned daily with bleach-based cleaners.

Common areas in the affected units are also being cleaned thoroughly to combat the spread of the infection.

C. difficile, which causes diarrhea, is one of the most common infections in hospitals and long-term care facilities.