What is Giardia common name?

The flagellate protozoan Giardia intestinalis (previously known as G lamblia or G duodenalis), its causative agent, is the most commonly identified intestinal parasite in the United States [1, 2] and the most common protozoal intestinal parasite isolated worldwide.

What is the infective form of Giardia lamblia?

Giardia lamblia exists in two forms, an active form called a trophozoite, and an inactive form called a cyst. The active trophozoite attaches to the lining of the small intestine with a “sucker” and is responsible for causing the signs and symptoms of giardiasis.

How do Giardia live?

Giardia parasites live in the intestines of people and animals. Before the microscopic parasites are passed in stool, they become encased within hard shells called cysts, which allows them to survive outside the intestines for months. Once inside a host, the cysts dissolve and the parasites are released.

How long can Giardia lamblia live?

Once a person or animal has been infected with Giardia, the parasite lives in the intestines and is passed in stool (poop). Once outside the body, Giardia can sometimes survive for weeks or even months.

How long can you have Giardia untreated?

Giardiasis is unpleasant, but it’s not usually dangerous. Once you begin the medicine, you can recover in about a week. If it’s left untreated, symptoms can last 6 weeks or more. As with any illness, complications can occur.

What Kingdom does Giardia lamblia belong to?

As you can see in Figure 1, Giardia lamblia (circled in blue) belongs to the domain Eukarya, because of its previously mentioned two nuceli and nuclear membrane. As well it is part of the diverse Kingdom Protista, which contain organisms that are mostly unicellular and live in aquatic environments.

Can Giardia be cured?

Although there are no specific cures for Giardia infections, the standard treatment procedure of taking medicines has proven very effective in curing giardiasis .

Can Giardia lamblia be passed from animal to human?

A zoonotic disease is one that can be passed from an animal to a human. Giardia lamblia is said to be zoonotic, since it infects dogs, cats, and other mammals as well as humans. The risk of us being infected by a sick pet is considered to be small. There are multiple strains of the parasite within the species.