Clostridium difficile PCR ribotype 027 emerges in Taiwan

Abstract

Clostridium difficile PCR ribotype 027 is a hypervirulent strain that has caused significant nosocomial diarrhea in many countries but has not yet been reported or isolated in Taiwan previously. Here, we present the characteristics of a case of C. difficile PCR ribotype 027 identified in Taiwan. Taiwan is located in a key transportation center of Asia. This report is important for alerting hospitals and public health departments in Asia about the emergence of this hypervirulent strain so that close monitoring may be enacted to prevent potential outbreaks.