Final Answer:
C. difficile infection risk factors include recent antibiotic use, hospitalization, and older age. Symptoms involve diarrhea and colitis. Treatment typically involves antibiotics like vancomycin or metronidazole. Bacterial spores from C. difficile contribute to its transmission and enter the body through ingestion, often surviving harsh environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Risk factors for C. difficile infection (CDI) include recent antibiotic use, hospitalization, and advanced age. CDI symptoms encompass diarrhea and colitis, potentially leading to severe complications. Treatment involves antibiotics like vancomycin or metronidazole. Bacterial spores, a resilient form of C. difficile, contribute to its transmission. These spores, resistant to environmental stress, can persist in the environment and re-enter the body through ingestion. Understanding risk factors, symptoms, and treatment is crucial for managing and preventing C. difficile infections, particularly in healthcare settings where the bacterium is prevalent.
"Complete Question
What are the risk factors for C. difficile infection? What are
the symptoms of a C. difficile infection? What is the
treatment?
What is the function of bacterial spores? How do they enter into
the body?"