What is Giardiasis?

Two types of giardia intestinalis parasites can cause giardiasis: Giardia lamblia or Giardia duodenalis. They can survive in soil or water without a host for a period of weeks up to several months. They can survive in both animals and humans.

Symptoms

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the symptoms of giardiasis can include: diarrhea, flatulence (gas), greasy stool that can float, stomach or abdominal cramps, upset stomach or nausea, and dehydration.
Some people infected with giardiasis have no symptoms at all, and in such a case they may not need to be treated.

Transmission

Giardiasis can be transmitted through several means. One way that is common, though unpleasant to think about, is by touching something or ingesting something that has been in contact with infected feces. For instance, if someone has giardia parasites and doesn't wash properly after a \bowel movement, they can leave parasites on toilet handles, sinks, doorknobs, or even food (if they work in a restaurant or deli/bakery.

Untreated water systems can also spread giardia parasites. Likewise, undercooked meats may also spread the condition.

Other common ways that it can be transmitted include: contact with an infected person, traveling to areas where giardia is more common, drinking well water that hasn't been treated. coming into contact with animal feces, ingesting it from your hand after touching an infected surface then eating, and eating raw food that has been in contact with the parasites.

Treatment

In cases where absolutely no symptoms are present, but a positive result for giardiasis has been found, your doctor or health care provider may opt not to treat the parasite. The parasites usually clear up on their own within two to six weeks.

Medications can be used to lessen the duration of the infection and help avoid dehydration. Infants and certain other groups that are more susceptible to becoming dehydrated will usually be treated for giardiasis.

If you suspect you or your child have giardiasis, your doctor can confirm with a test and treat you appropriately. In the meantime, use caution when handling food and common areas (doorknobs, etc.). Use thorough hygiene techniques to avoid potentially spreading the parasites.

Sources:

Parasites- Giardia, http://cdc.gov/parasites/giardia/gen_info/faqs.html