C. difficile Infection Rates and Diphtheria Cases in Nepal
Author Information
Author(s): Floyd Frost, Judith S. Hurley, Hans V. Petersen, Roman N. Casciano
Primary Institution: Southwest Center for Managed Case Research
Conclusion
The study found that the incidence of C. difficile infection decreased from 24.5 to 11.1 cases per 100,000 person-years from 1993 to 1997, while diphtheria cases persist in Nepal despite vaccination efforts.
Supporting Evidence
- The incidence of C. difficile infection was 14.8 cases per 100,000 person-years during the study period.
- Rates of C. difficile infection increased with age, with the highest rate in those aged 75 and older.
- Two cases of diphtheria were reported in children in Nepal, highlighting ongoing public health concerns.
Takeaway
Doctors looked at how many people got sick from a germ called C. difficile over a few years and found fewer cases as time went on. They also saw that diphtheria is still making some kids sick in Nepal, even though many are supposed to get vaccinated.
Methodology
The study calculated age-adjusted rates of C. difficile infection based on claims records from a managed-care population.
Potential Biases
The managed-care population is generally healthy and insured, which may not reflect the broader population's health characteristics.
Limitations
The study did not confirm diagnoses with laboratory records and the population may not represent the general U.S. population.
Participant Demographics
The study included a managed-care population with 713,000 person-years of enrollment, primarily adults.
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