Two more cases of C. difficile have been diagnosed at Guelph General Hospital in the six days since an outbreak was declared at the facility.
Last week, the hospital declared an outbreak after four patients contracted C. difficile.
That number has since risen to six, one of whom has died – although it’s not clear if the death can be directly linked to the bacteria.
C. difficile is a bacteria which can cause diarrhea and other symptoms.
It is one of the more common infections in hospitals, and primarily affects the elderly and people on antibiotics.
Melissa Skinner, the hospital’s director of quality and professional practice, says there are no visiting restrictions in place, but hand sanitizer has been placed around the facility in abundance and guests are asked to make use of it.
“We welcome loved ones and family members to visit their patients and their families in the hospital,” she says.
“We just ask that they take extra care and do a really good job washing their hands as often as possible.”
Skinner says the hospital hopes an end can be declared to the outbreak by Christmas.
