Giardiasis is an infection affecting the nutrient absorption in the small intestine leading to diarrhea.

Causes

• Parasite called Giardia lamblia
• Food, water and surfaces contaminated by the parasite present in infected feces

Symptoms
Symptoms are not present in a lot of cases but when present, they may include:

• Watery diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Bloating
• Flatulence
• Sometimes, low grade fever

Treatment
Some cases improve without any treatment. In other cases, treatment includes:

• Medication to fight the infection

Prevention

• Washing hands after visiting the toilet
• Washing hands before eating and handling food
• Washing raw fruits and vegetables before consumption
• Drinking adequately boiled or treated water