Giardiasis
Giardiasis is a diarrhoea illness caused by a microscopic parasite (Giardia intestinalis) that lives in the intestines of people and animals.
Transmission occurs from ingestion of faecal contaminated food or drinking of recreational water, from exposure to faecal contaminated environmental surfaces and from person to person by the faecal-oral route including homosexual practices.
Manifestations: Symptoms occur approximately 1 to 2 weeks after ingestion of the parasite and include:
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal cramps
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Flatulence
- Anorexia
- Nausea
- Usually last more than 5 days.
Chronic disease is seen with continuous diarrhoea, and flatulence.
Diagnosis and treatment: Stool samples will show the parasite. Treatment is available.
Prevent giardiasis by:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Wash hands after using the toilet and before handling or eating food (especially for persons with diarrhoea).
- Wash hands after every diaper change, especially if you work with diaper-aged children, even if you are wearing gloves.
- Protect others by not swimming if experiencing diarrhoea (essential for children in nappies).
- Avoid drinking untreated water from shallow wells, lakes, rivers, springs, ponds, and streams.
- Avoid drinking untreated water
- Avoid using ice or drinking untreated water when travelling in countries where the water supply might be unsafe.
- Wash and/or peel all raw vegetables and fruits before eating.
- Use uncontaminated water to wash all food that is to be eaten raw.
- Avoid eating uncooked foods when travelling in countries with minimal water treatment and sanitation systems.
- Avoid faecal exposure during sex
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