• Instant quote
• Privacy

• about us
• contact

• Travel advice
• Health advice
• Illness
• Country guide
• Visas
• Gap years
• Legal issues
• Embassies

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