What is it?

Giardia enteritis is an infection principally of the upper small intestine (gut).

How do I know if someone has it?

Symptoms include:

• Bloating
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Weight loss 

Is it infectious?

Children are infected more frequently than adults. It is more commonly found in areas of poor sanitation. The organism is associated with drinking or contact with contaminated water. It can also be found in the faeces of people and wild or domestic animals.

What is the incubation period?

Symptoms usually begin 7 - 10 days after infection but has a range of 3 - 25 days or longer.

What should I do if someone has the illness?

Most people will get better with no treatment. At first, the infected person should drink plenty of clear fluids and try not to eat. Water, non fizzy fruit drinks or tea without milk are good. If the symptoms persist, or there is blood in the diarrhoea, the person should contact their GP. Medical advice can also be obtained from NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

How can spread be avoided?

Personal hygiene should be very strict. Everyone should wash their hands with warm, soapy water after going to the toilet and before eating or handling food. The toilet should be kept clean, including the seat and handle. Use treated water supplies and dispose of toilet waste properly.

How soon can someone return to school/work?

People should stay away from school or work until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours. Those who handle food as part of their work should check with their employers and GP before returning.

For further information the websites below may be of interest.

Date Published: 28/03/08