Warning Signs Of Giardiasis

Giardiasis, also known as Giardia infection or beaver fever, is a condition caused by a microscopic parasite called Giardia lamblia, also known as Giardia intestinalis. While giardiasis can occur anywhere in the world, including the United States, it is most common in places where individuals don’t have access to clean drinking water. Even so, G. lamblia is the most common intestinal parasite in the United States.

G. lamblia lives in its host’s small intestine and is eventually excreted out along with the feces. The parasite can grow a cyst or hard shell to protect it. The cyst can survive for months outside the body. Dogs, cats, beavers, and humans can all be hosts to G. lamblia.