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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffGiardia infection is an intestinal infection marked by abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea and bouts of watery diarrhea. Giardia infection is caused by a microscopic parasite that is found worldwide, especially in areas with poor sanitation and unsafe water.
Giardia infection (giardiasis) is one of the most common causes of waterborne disease in the United States. The parasites are found in backcountry streams and lakes, but also in municipal water supplies, swimming pools, whirlpool spas and wells. Giardia infection can be transmitted through food and person-to-person contact.
Giardia infections usually clear up within six weeks. But you may have intestinal problems long after the parasites are gone. Several drugs are generally effective against giardia parasites, but not everyone responds to them. Prevention is your best defense.
- Fact sheet: Giardia infection (giardiasis). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/giardiasis/factsht_giardia.htm. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Pickering LK. Giardia lamblia (giardiasis). In: Long SS, et al. Principles and Practice of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Churchill Livingston Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/189644263-3/969360504/1679/269.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-443-06687-0..50268-X_4686. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Huston CD. Giardia lamblia. In: Feldman M, et al. Sleisenger & Fordran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2006. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/189644263-3/969360504/1389/793.html#4-u1.0-B1-4160-0245-6..50111-6--cesec14_5019. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Leder K, et al. Patient information: Giardia. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed March 17, 2010.
- Rohren CH (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. April 1, 2010.
- Munoz FM. Treatment and prevention of giardiasis in children. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed March 17, 2010.
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