How contagious is C. diff?

[Allis A. Clamp]

I don't work in healthcare. I created an account here because I hope to one day. As for now though, I rarely have anything to do with healthcare facilities. I have a problem that I've been stressing about all day, and hope that someone might be able to help.

I have fibromyalgia, and am very weak. My legs are so stiff and weak that I have a great deal of trouble just getting through the day. I share the opinion of Dr. John Sarno that fibromyalgia is ultimately a "mind-body" issue. The fact of the matter is though, that I have it, and I've been weakened by it.

A friend is in the hospital and is very ill. He's not expected to live long. I'd like to visit him before he dies. I'm really conflicted about doing this, however. My friend has C. diff, and all who visit him must wear a gown and gloves. As of yesterday, all I knew of C. diff is that it's an intestinal pathogen that causes severe diarrhea. After reading accounts on this site of nurses that have contracted C. diff and have had recurrences up to a year later, had to quit work, have lost thirty pounds, have had to quit their jobs, collapsed on the job, etc. I wonder if paying my friend a final visit is worth the risk.

As mentioned, my weakness and dysfunction is severe. I cannot, under any circumstances, afford to grow even weaker. Being wheelchair bound is something I can't even consider. C. diff, while possibly severe, might not be that big a deal for those of us that haven't taken antibiotics recently. Maybe I'm worrying over nothing. Maybe the chances of getting sick are one in a million.

I just don't know what to do. If anyone can offer any advice, I'd appreciate it.

Thanks.

[Penelope_Pitstop, BSN, RN]

I would seek the advice of your rheumatologist.

Wishing peace to your friend, and good health to you.

[Allis A. Clamp]

Thanks for the reply. I left a message today, but unfortunately have heard nothing back. I doubt he has more than a few days left, so I really have to make a decision quickly.

[allnurses Admin Team]

As stated above we cannot provide the medical advice you seek. We hope you can get the advice you need from your healthcare provider and hope you are able to make contact with your friend.