News Release

July 20, 2011

C. difficile cases increase at CMH

Cambridge, Ontario – Cambridge Memorial Hospital (CMH) announced today it has had a total of seven patients with C. difficile this month. Five of those cases were health care associated and two were community acquired. Three patients have since been discharged, while three remain in hospital. Earlier this month, C. difficile was a contributor to a patient’s death.

“These cases appear to be unrelated and together with the Public Health unit, we are closely monitoring these patients. What is encouraging is that it shows our current practices and efforts seem to be preventing the spread of the disease.” says Susan Gregoroff, Vice-President, Clinical Programs and Chief Nursing Executive.

CMH has reviewed the most recent Niagara Health System report by an expert Infection Control team to ensure it is in line with recommended infection control practices. The hospital continues to be vigilant with cleaning throughout the building. CMH has also increased its cleaning audits to ensure compliance to best practice standards.

“Infection control is hard work and I want to thank our staff and physicians for their commitment to patient safety and high quality care. We will update the community with information as it becomes available,” adds Gregoroff.