Friday, August 1, 2014
Giardia
Giardia is a
microscopic parasite that causes giardiasis, a diarrheal illness. It is found on surfaces or in water, soil, and
food that is contaminated with infected human or animal feces.
Prevalence
Around the World
Giardiasis infects nearly 2% of adults and 6% to 8%
of children in developed countries worldwide, and nearly 33% of people in
developing countries. Giardia infection is the most common intestinal parasitic
disease in the United States. Infection occurs when Giardia cysts (hard shells
containing Giardia) found in contaminated food or water are swallowed. The cysts
leave the body through fecal discharge. An infected individual sheds about 1-10
billion cysts daily and shedding may last for several months. Also, swallowing
as few as 10 cysts might still cause someone to become ill. Giardia is passed
from person-to-person or even animal-to-person. Symptoms begin 1 to 3 weeks
after a person has been infected.
Life
cycle
Symptoms
·
Diarrhea
·
Stomach
or abdominal cramps
·
Upset
stomach or nausea
·
Dehydration
Treatment
There are several effective drugs are used to treat
Giardia infections, and these drugs include metronidazole, tinidazole, and
nitazoxanide. Alternative drugs include paromomycin, quinacrine, and
furazolidone. Proper nutrition and a strong immune system can shape the effusiveness
of the drugs.
Prevention
and Control
Practicing good hygiene is the most effective way
to prevent infection and transmission.
o Wash hands with soap and clean, running water
for at least 20 seconds; rub your hands together to make lather and be sure to
scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
§
Before, during, and
after preparing food
§
Before eating food
§
Before and after caring
for someone who is sick
§
Before and after
treating a cut or wound
§
After using the toilet
§
After changing diapers
or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
§
After blowing your nose,
coughing, or sneezing
§
After touching an animal
or animal waste
§
After handling pet food
or pet treats
§
After touching garbage
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