Giardia are protozoans, tiny, one-celled parasitic microorganisms that have the potential to cause serious illness in people and animals. Illness caused by the Giardia parasite is called giardiasis, which is a diarrheal illness. Once an animal or person has been infected, the parasite lives in the intestine and is passed out of the body through feces. Because the parasite has a protective outer shell, it can survive outside the body and in the environment for long periods of time, up to several months.
The Giardia parasite live in the intestine of infected humans or animals. Very large quantities of the parasite can be released in the bowel movements of infected individuals. Giardia is found on surfaces, food, in soil, or water that has been contaminated with the feces from infected humans or animals. Giardiasis occurs when someone inadvertently swallows the parasite. Giardia is not a blood borne illness, and cannot be spread through contact with the blood of an infected person or animal. The most common ways that Giardia is spread are as follows:
- Eating raw food that is contaminated.
- Swallowing recreational water that is contaminated. Recreational water includes water in rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, fountains, swimming pools, water parks, hot tubs, or spas that can be contaminated with feces or sewage from animals and humans.
- Drinking water or using ice made from contaminated sources. These sources can include lakes, streams, shallow (less than 50 feet) or poorly monitored or maintained wells.
- Unintentionally swallowing Giardia picked up from surfaces (such as diaper pails, changing tables, toys, or bathroom fixtures) contaminated with feces from an infected animal or person.
- Being in close contact with someone who is infected with giardiasis.
Infection with Giardia causes a variety of intestinal symptoms:
- Abdominal or stomach cramps
- Upset stomach and/or nausea
- Gas or flatulence
- Diarrhea
- Greasy stool that tends to float
It is important to seek medical attention if you believe that you have giardiasis. Because diarrhea can cause extreme dehydration, Giardia infection is extremely dangerous for pregnant women, children, and especially infants. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids during Giardia illness. There are several options for prescription medications to treat Giardia, so prompt medical attention will lead to a quicker recovery.
Transmission to other people in the home can be minimized with vigorous hand washing, after using the restroom. Cleaning of surfaces with anti-microbial cleaners, like bleach or Lysol, to kill Giardia parasites on household surfaces. Thorough washing of fresh fruits and vegetables in clean water, to remove any of the parasites from raw food. Also, never drink water from potentially contaminated sources, like rivers, streams, puddles, swimming pools, etc. All of these practices should aid in reducing your risk and the risk to your family of contracting giardiasis.
