Giardia: What You Should Know

Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes the diarrheal illness known as giardiasis. Giardia is found on surfaces or in soil, food, or water that has been contaminated with feces from infected humans or animals. Giardia cysts are protected by an outer shell that allows them to survive outside of the body for long periods of time, sometimes weeks or months, and makes them tolerant to chlorine disinfection. People can become infected by: • Swallowing Giardia picked up from surfaces such as bathroom handles, changing tables, diaper pails, toys and properties contaminated with sewage that contain feces from an infected person or animal • Drinking water or using ice made from water sources where Giardia may live • Swallowing water while swimming or playing in water where Giardia is present, especially in lakes, rivers, springs, ponds, and streams • Eating uncooked food that contains Giardia • Having contact with someone who is ill with the parasite Symptoms of illness normally begin 1 to 3 weeks after be