Giardia
Giardia is an infection of the small intestines by a protozoa, Giardia lamblia. An infected person or animal typically transmits the protozoa through infecting water sources. Sewage in the water (even if you can't see it!) carries the protozo and then is ingested by another person or animals. Once a person or animal (for example, cats, dogs, cattle, deer, and beavers) has been infected with Giardia, the parasite lives in the intestines and is passed in feces (poop). Once outside the body, Giardia can sometimes survive for weeks or months. Giardia can be found within every region of the U.S. and around the world.
You can get Giardia from
Symptoms include vomiting, severe diarrhea, gas, headache, fever, nausea, dehydration and loss of appetite. Symptoms may last from 2-6 weeks.
Giardia is tpyically thought to be a hiker's disease whereas hikers may drink unfiltered water from streams or lakes. It is important that all water be boiled or filtered before drinking to avoid possible contamination.
You can get Giardia from
- Swallowing Giardia picked up from surfaces (such as bathroom handles, changing tables, diaper pails, or toys) that contain stool from an infected person or animal
- Drinking water or using ice made from water sources where Giardia may live (for example, untreated or improperly treated water from lakes, streams, or wells)
- Swallowing water while swimming or playing in water where Giardia may live, especially in lakes, rivers, springs, ponds, and streams
- Eating uncooked food that contains Giardia organisms
- Having contact with someone who is ill with giardiasis
- Traveling to countries where giardiasis is common
Symptoms include vomiting, severe diarrhea, gas, headache, fever, nausea, dehydration and loss of appetite. Symptoms may last from 2-6 weeks.
Giardia is tpyically thought to be a hiker's disease whereas hikers may drink unfiltered water from streams or lakes. It is important that all water be boiled or filtered before drinking to avoid possible contamination.