What is it?
Giardia lamblia is not a virus or bacteria, but is an organism belonging to the Protozoan group and is responsible for causing diarrhoea in humans.
Where can it be caught?
This germ is widespread and can be found in surface waters, shallow wells, untreated drinking water, some wild and domesticated animals, contaminated food and from person to person transmission as humans are a main reservoir.
How long until symptoms develop?
It can take between 3 and 25 days or longer, on average it is 7-10 days.
What are the symptoms?
Many cases are asymptomatic, i.e., no signs of illness. However those who do have symptoms may show one or more of the following: diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, bloating, frequent loose and pale greasy stools, fatigue and weight loss.
How long do symptoms last?
Maybe weeks or months. The illness may become chronic and therefore relapses of illness may occur.
Once recovered and having had no diarrhoea for 48 hours, it is safe for normal work or school activities to resume, this includes dealing with food.
If you have any further questions regarding any of the above, please feel free to contact the Environmental Health Department on 01727 866100 extension 2450 or 2444.
Remember, if you are ill, pay particular attention to personal hygiene. Always wash your hands after visiting the toilet, and before handling food. This will help prevent the spread of infection to others.
Ten tips for food safety
Take chilled and frozen food home quickly - then put it in your fridge or freezer at once.
Prepare and store raw and cooked food separately. Keep raw meat and fish at the bottom of your fridge.
Keep the coldest part of your fridge at 0-5?C. Get a fridge thermometer.
Check 'Use-by' dates. Use food within the recommended period.
Keep pets away from food - and dishes and worktops.
Wash hands thoroughly before preparing food, after going to the toilet or after handling pets.
Keep your kitchen clean. Wash worktops and utensils between handling food which is to be cooked and food which is not.
Do not eat food containing uncooked eggs. Keep eggs in the fridge.
Cook food well. Follow the instructions on the pack. If you reheat make sure it is piping hot.
Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold - don't just leave them standing around.
Date of last review: 20 September 2008