Giardiasis Epidemiology

Abstract

Giardiasis is the intestinal infection caused by Giardia lamblia, in which pathogenicity was cast doubted for decades but now is recognized as one of the most common causes of diarrheal disease worldwide. Originally described as waterborne transmitted, it has been broad described as of fecal-oral, person-to-person contact, and sexual transmission also. Although it is recognized as endemic throughout the world, most cases are reported from tropical countries with regular outbreaks commonly reported from developed countries. In humans, giardiasis normally produces a self-limited infection without symptoms, but some patients may present intestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain, and few show symptoms long after parasites clear up. Upon diagnosis, we may choose among several effective treatment alternatives, but not every patient responds to such therapies. Hence, having specific knowledge about the epidemiology of Giardia, it is critical for its prevention, which is the best strategy to protect us against such important disease.