Montreal, Calgary hospitals struggle to contain superbug

[iansmith]

MONTREAL - Several hospitals in both Montreal and Calgary are battling long-running outbreaks of a superbug.

Clostridium difficile infections target the colon, producing a toxin that can cause severe diarrhea and fever. It usually infects people after they've taken antibiotics. In serious cases, patients are forced to have their bowels or intestines removed.

At least 79 people in Montreal and 10 in Calgary may have died as a result, the Canadian Medical Association Journal said Friday. The patients in Montreal contracted the infection in 2003 or early 2004.

Dr. Francoise Chagnon, head of professional services at the McGill University Health Centre, disputes the figures. She said 36 died – three per cent of those infected with the bug. SARS killed 44 people in Canada.

Until Friday, health authorities had not informed the public about the hospital outbreaks, saying they wanted to evaluate the severity of the disease first

http://www.cbc.ca/stories/2004/06/04/sci-tech/c_difficile040604

 

[DarkAnt]

Super bug? the plauge was a super bug. The common cold kills more people than this doesn't it?

[edit] I mean that as a question, not trying to spite you or anything

 

[ravenprp]

It is concerning to hear about the ongoing struggles with the superbug outbreaks in both Montreal and Calgary hospitals. The fact that these outbreaks have been going on for a long time and have resulted in numerous deaths is alarming. The impact of this superbug, Clostridium difficile, on patients is severe and can even lead to the removal of their bowels or intestines. It is also concerning that the number of deaths reported by the Canadian Medical Association Journal and the figures reported by Dr. Francoise Chagnon differ significantly, highlighting the need for accurate and transparent reporting of such outbreaks.

The comparison to the SARS outbreak is also notable, as it shows the severity and potential danger of these types of infections. It is important for health authorities to inform the public about outbreaks like these in a timely manner, as it allows for better understanding and prevention of the spread of the infection. Delayed reporting may result in a lack of awareness and appropriate measures being taken to contain the outbreak.

It is crucial for hospitals to have proper protocols and measures in place to prevent and control the spread of superbugs. This includes proper hygiene practices, appropriate use of antibiotics, and timely reporting of outbreaks. It is also important for individuals to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions when visiting hospitals or healthcare facilities.

It is my hope that the authorities in Montreal and Calgary will take swift action to contain these outbreaks and prevent further harm to patients. It is also important for the public to be informed and educated about the situation, in order to take necessary precautions and prevent the spread of the superbug.