Giardia

Giardia is a genus of microscopic parasites that cause gastrointestinal illness in humans and other animals. Giardia is a single-celled organism that lives in the intestines of infected hosts. It is spread through the fecal-oral route, meaning it can be transmitted through contaminated water or food, or by direct contact with an infected person or animal. Symptoms of Giardia infection include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps, and bloating. Treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics. Giardia is classified as a protozoan, meaning it is made up of a single cell. Its life cycle involves both a cystic and an active trophozoite stage. In the cystic stage, the parasite is dormant and can survive outside of the host for extended periods of time. In the active trophozoite stage, the parasite attaches to and feeds on the host's intestinal wall. This can cause inflammation and damage to the lining of the intestines, leading to the symptoms of infection. Giardia is a common cause of waterborne and foodborne illness, and can be difficult to eliminate from the environment. Good hygiene practices, such as handwashing and disinfecting contaminated surfaces, can help reduce the spread of Giardia. Treatment of Giardia infections should be managed by a healthcare professional.