Gastrointestinal Infections in Healthcare Settings

Overview of Gastrointestinal Infections in Healthcare Settings

Acute Gastrointestinal infections may be caused by a variety of agents, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. However, only a few agents have been documented in nosocomial transmission (Table 5) Nosocomial transmission of agents that cause gastrointestinal infections usually results from contact with infected individuals, from consumption of contaminated food, water, or other beverages, or from exposure to contaminated objects or environmental surfaces. Airborne transmission may rarely occur.

Clostridium Difficile Infections

Background/General Information

Fact Sheets

Date last modified: April 13, 2004
Content source: 
Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion (DHQP)
National Center for Preparedness, Detection, and Control of Infectious Diseases (NCPDCID)