Costa Rica News – The most aggressive type of Clostridium difficile was the culprit in 17 deaths in Costa Rica’s national hospitals in 2009.
There were further outbreaks in 2013 and 2014, causing four deaths and dozens of infections.
The bacteria causes vomiting, diarrhea and intestinal damage and usually affects those who have been on prolonged strong antibiotics. There is no treatment and the bacteria kills 8-15% of people.
An experimental vaccine against this organism will be tested in Costa Rica. Costa Rica only allows the third phase of testing, after the phases that prove its safety and possible success.
The vaccine works by using a purified version of the toxins caused by the bacteria. The toxins are taken to a lab and the poisonous charge is disabled or deleted.
The purified toxins then contribute to the immune system’s ability to create antibodies.