Giardiasis

Description
Giardiasis is an intestinal disease caused by a parasite called Giardia lamblia. The organism is identified by a microscopic examination of a faecal specimen. Symptoms include diarrhoea, foul-smelling faeces, cramping, excessive gas or bloating, fatigue, nausea, and sometimes vomiting or weight loss. Fever and bloody faeces are not usually symptoms of giardia infections. Many infected people and animals have no symptoms. In child care centres, children and adults may be well and not have diarrhoea but still be infected with the parasite. This makes their faeces potentially infectious to other children. A person with active diarrhoea is more likely to spread the disease than one who is well but has infectious organisms in their faeces. Giardiasis spreads when hands, objects or food become contaminated with the faeces of infected people and the parasites are then taken in by mouth. Infection may also result from drinking water contaminated by infected humans or animals.


Incubation Period
5-15 days, commonly 6-9 days.


Infectious Period
For as long as the organism is in the person's faeces, whether or not the person is ill.


Controlling the Spread of Infection
Exclude a person with infectious diarrhoea from the centre until diarrhoea has ceased. Be sure that good handwashing and cleaning procedures are being followed in the centre and at home.


Treatment
The person will not usually be infectious after being treated for several days. Ask parents to check with their doctor about treatment. It is not usually necessary to test or treat children who have no symptoms. Make sure the child has plenty to drink, see "Safe drinks" on page 60.


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Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is intended as a guide only. Wollongong Medical Centre is not liable for any problems that may arise from incorrectly or otherwise applying information found in this website.


Further General Information

The following web site has information on infectious diseases: www.health.nsw.gov.au/infect/ or contact the Division of Population and Planning on 4255-2200.

For information on a large range of medical conditions and problems visit www.mayoclinic.com