Giardia Fact Sheet

Cause:

Giardia (lamblia) intestinalis, a microscopic one cell parasite. Giardia infection has become recognized as one of the most common causes of waterborne disease (found in both drinking and recreational water) in humans in the United States. Because the parasite is protected by an outer shell, it can survive outside the body and in the environment for long periods of time. Giardia is found in soil, food, water, or surfaces that have been contaminated with the feces from infected humans or animals.

Occurrence in Animals:

Primarily in young cattle, may also be found in young of other species including cats, dogs, horses as well as birds, reptiles and even fish.

Source of Infection in Animals:

Feces

Transmission:

Accidental ingestion (fecal-oral route) both directly and indirectly through objects contaminated with feces e.g. water sources.

Observable Signs of Infection:

Animals:

Diarrhea, bloody or mucous stool, often accompanied by gas production.

Humans:

Diarrhea, gas/flatulence, abdominal cramps, nausea, 'greasy' appearing feces

Precautions:

Good personal hygiene
- WASH HANDS after handling animals or being in their environment
- No eating, drinking, smoking, etc., around animals or their environments
Avoid hand-to-mouth contact
Wear coveralls and gloves if in contact with young animals (particularly calves) that have diarrhea or their environment or when in contact with fecal material.
Barn clothes and boots can carry Giardia to other areas so use disposable coveralls and boot dip, dedicated boots, or disposable boot covers when accessing areas of potentially infectious animals.

Reference:

Cornell- Zoonoses