Clostridium difficile-associated disease: new challenges from an established pathogen.

Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD) can range from uncomplicated diarrhea to sepsis and even death. CDAD rates and severity are increasing, possibly due to a new strain. Transmission of C difficile occurs primarily in health care facilities via the fecal-oral route following transient contamination of the hands of health care workers and patients; contamination of the patient care environment also plays an important role.