Animalscaretips
Giardia is a tiny parasite (germ) that causes the diarrheal disease giardiasis. Giardia is found on surfaces or in soil, food, or water that has been contaminated with feces (poop) from infected people or animals. You can get giardiasis if you swallow Giardia germs.
- How does a human get Giardia?
- Is Giardia contagious to humans?
- What kills human Giardia?
- Where is Giardia found?
- Will Giardia go away by itself?
- What happens if Giardia is left untreated?
- What is the best medicine for giardia?
- How do you know if you have intestinal parasites?
- What color is Giardia poop?
- Is Giardia a virus or bacteria?
- What causes dog Giardia?
- How do I know if my dog has Giardia?
- How can giardiasis be prevented?
- Does Giardia make you tired?
How does a human get Giardia?
The most common way to become infected with giardia is after swallowing unsafe (contaminated) water. Giardia parasites are found in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams worldwide, as well as in public water supplies, wells, cisterns, swimming pools, water parks and spas.
Is Giardia contagious to humans?
Is Giardiasis Contagious? Giardiasis is very contagious, and can spread easily among families. In childcare centers or any facility caring for a group of people, or people who are traveling, giardiasis can easily pass from person to person.
What kills human Giardia?
Management and Treatment
If you have more severe parasite symptoms, your provider may prescribe an antibiotic with antiparasitic effect to kill the parasite. Giardia medications include: Metronidazole (Flagyl®). Tinidazole (Tindamax®).
Where is Giardia found?
Giardia is distributed worldwide in lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams. It is even found in high quality water sources with no municipal wastewater discharges.
Will Giardia go away by itself?
If your symptoms are mild, you generally won't need treatment for giardiasis. Mild infections can go away on their own in a few weeks. If symptoms are severe or aren't going away, medicine can be used. Infected people who work at a daycare or nursing home may also be treated with medicine.
What happens if Giardia is left untreated?
If left untreated, Giardia will eventually lead to more acute symptoms, including bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and dehydration. If you or your child experience a bout of diarrhea lasting more than a day or two, contact your doctor immediately.
What is the best medicine for giardia?
Metronidazole (Flagyl).
Metronidazole is the most commonly used antibiotic for giardia infection. Side effects may include nausea and a metallic taste in the mouth.
How do you know if you have intestinal parasites?
Digestive problems including unexplained constipation, diarrhoea or persistent gas. Skin issues such as rashes, eczema, hives, and itching. Continuous muscle and joint pain. Fatigue, even when you get enough sleep.
What color is Giardia poop?
What are the clinical signs of Giardiasis? These microscopic parasites attach themselves to the intestinal wall and the damage causes an acute (sudden-onset) foul-smelling diarrhea. The stool may range from soft to watery, often has a greenish tinge to it, and occasionally contains blood.
Is Giardia a virus or bacteria?
Giardia is a tiny parasite (germ) that causes the diarrheal disease giardiasis. Giardia is found on surfaces or in soil, food, or water that has been contaminated with feces (poop) from infected people or animals. You can get giardiasis if you swallow Giardia germs.
What causes dog Giardia?
Giardia has to be ingested by your dog in order for him to get the parasite. Your dog can get Giardia by drinking water that has been contaminated by feces or by eating something that has been contaminated by feces, like grass.
How do I know if my dog has Giardia?
Dog and cat stool (poop) can contain Giardia germs and may make people sick even when the pet appears healthy. Symptoms of Giardia infection in both people and pets can include diarrhea, gas, abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. It is possible to be infected and have no signs or symptoms of illness.
How can giardiasis be prevented?
The best way to prevent giardia infection is to practice good hygiene, including frequent hand washing. You should not drink water that may be contaminated. You should also peel or wash fresh fruit and vegetables before eating.
Does Giardia make you tired?
Some 500,000 cases of giardiasis are diagnosed each year, with people typically picking up the disease by drinking infected water or contaminated food. Symptoms include severe diarrhoea, stomach pains, bloating, flatulence and fatigue and can last weeks or months without treatment.
