Lambley

Giardiasis

Giardiasis is a disease caused by protozoan parasites - Giardia, which settle in the small intestine, sometimes in the gall bladder. Giardia exists in two forms: mobile vegetative and immobile cystic. The mobile form has 4 pairs of flagella and a suction disk, with which it attaches to the mucosa of the small intestine.

Infection occurs through consumption of food and water contaminated with Giardia cysts, as well as through contaminated hands and objects. Once in the digestive tract, Giardia actively multiplies in the small intestine, causing inflammation of the mucous membrane.

Symptoms: pain in the upper abdomen, bloating, nausea, constipation, diarrhea. Cysts are excreted in feces into the external environment, where they can remain viable for a long time.

Children aged 1-4 years are most often affected. In adults it may be asymptomatic. The treatment is carried out by a doctor. For prevention, it is important to follow the rules of personal hygiene, drink only boiled water, and thoroughly wash vegetables and fruits.