Beaver Fever / Giardiasis
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Giardiasis is a fairly common disease in Canada and around the world. The parasite that causes it, Giardia lamblia, is one of the most commonly isolated enteric parasites in Canada. In developing countries, it can be found in up to 30% of the population. Antony van Leeuwenhoek, the inventor of the microscope, is credited with first discovering it in the 1600's.
It is often water-borne, or spread in institutions where hygiene is poor. It is also called beaver fever, because the parasite has been discovered in beavers, but many wild and domestic animals carry this organism in their gut.
Although generally not a serious illness, it can have some long lasting side effects if left untreated - an issue primarily for people whose immune systems are weakened. It is easily prevented by good hygiene and safe food handling practices. It requires a higher degree of drinking water treatment, however, for operators of water systems supplied by surface water. |
Information for Health Professionals
Last Updated: August 10, 2010