OH GEEZ, its Giardiasis!

What is giardiasis?

Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia. Giardiasis spreads through eating or drinking contaminated food or water and person to person contact. Although this condition can be found all over the world, it is more common in developing countries that lack water quality control and sanitary conditions

What are the causes of giardiasis?

Although G. lamblia is found in human and animal feces, the most common way to contract giardiasis is to drink contaminated water which includes bodies of water such as lakes and even swimming pools. These parasites can also survive outside of a host for long periods of time, making them especially infectious when consumed accidentally or unknowingly. Although possible, contracting an infection from food that has been contaminated is less common because of heating; however, poor sanitation standards can contribute to the spread of the parasite.

Giardiasis can also be spread through personal contact including sexual acts such as anal sex or even changing a child’s diaper.

Treatment and prevention of giardiasis?

In most cases, giardiasis eventually clears up on its own; however, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics if prolonged infection occurs. Certain antibiotics are commonly used to treat giardiasis such as Tinidazole, Nitazoxanide and Paromomycin.

Although giardiasis cannot 100% be prevented, washing your hands lowers the risk of exposure. AVOID DRINKING UNTREATED WATER. Know where your traveling, and find out if the water is safe for consumption. Be cautious and practice safe sex.