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Study offers 'real hope' for C.diff sufferers
Stomach pain
In the US alone, almost 500,000 C.diff infections occurred in 2011, resulting in 29,000 deaths.
Harmless spores of C.diff prevent repeated infection

Giving spores of non-toxic Clostridium difficile (C.diff) by mouth is effective in stopping bouts of C.diff infection, according to a study published in The Journal of American Medical Association.
 
C.diff infection is a type of bacterial infection that affects the digestive system. It most commonly affects those who have been treated with antibiotics.

Symptoms include severe diarrhoea, a high temperature and painful abdominal cramps.

Lead author Dale Gerding, professor of medicine at Loyola University Medical Centre (LUMC), Chicago, said: "Results of this study confirm findings of earlier studies that showed that if we can establish non-toxic C.diff as a resident of the gut of the patient, that we can protect the patient from infection by the toxic strains of C.diff.”

He adds that the results are worthy of further study to confirm that treatment with non-toxic C.diff spores can reduce recurrent C.diff infection and prevent a first episode of C.diff infection in those who are taking any antibiotics and are at high risk of infection.

Dale Gerding and an international team of infectious disease researchers ran trials on 173 adult patients.  Of those assigned non-toxic C.diff in liquid form, 11 per cent experienced a repeat infection within 42 days, compared with 30 per cent of those given a placebo - showing a significant reduction.

Hospital acquired infections, including C.diff, are an increasing problem throughout the world. In the US alone, almost 500,000 C.diff infections occurred in 2011, resulting in 29,000 deaths.

Stuart Johnson, infectious disease specialist at LUMC, said that the study offers 'real hope' for those debilitated by recurring bouts of the infection.

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA announces 12th Edition of the Small Animal Formulary

The BSAVA has published an updated edition of its Small Animal Formulary, which includes new drug monographs and emergency drug doses for rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles.

One of BSAVA's most trusted and widely used clinical resources, this 12th edition of the manual also includes seven new client information leaflets and information on drugs used for the management of urinary incontinence.

Part A of the Formulary, Canine and Feline, sees Fergus Allerton return as Editor-in-Chief, while Part B: Exotic Pets was edited by Joanna Hedley. For more information, visit the BSAVA website.