Giardiasis

Report within 24 hours of Diagnosis to the Local Health Department.

Giardiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite. This parasite lives in the intestines and produces eggs (cysts) which are passed from the body in the stool. A person becomes infected by swallowing cysts of the parasite. This occurs when they eat or drink food or water contaminated with Giardia cysts. It is also spread by direct or indirect contact with stool from an infected person or animal. Many people with giardiasis do not experience symptoms. People who become ill have symptoms that include diarrhea (pale/greasy stools), abdominal cramps, bloating, weight loss, and tiredness.

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Last Reviewed: 9/6/2018