Implementation of standardised surveillance for Clostridium difficile infections in Australia: initial report from the Victorian Healthcare Associated Infection Surveillance System

Detection of a hypervirulent strain of Clostridium difficile in Victoria led to commencement of targeted surveillance for C. difficile infection in 2010. Cases were reported through the Victorian Healthcare Associated Infection Surveillance System. Between 1 October 2010 and 31 March 2011, 477 cases of C. difficile infection were identified; 11 (2.3%) secondary to a hypervirulent strain. Three hundred and seventy (1.7 per 10 000 occupied bed days) were healthcare associated. Data reflect successful implementation of continuous surveillance for C. difficile infection. With hypervirulent C. difficile infection now reported in other Australian states, development of a national data repository for C. difficile infection is necessary.