New Page 1 Skaneatles Lake Watershed Agricultural Program Pathogens Giardia lamblia Giardia lamblia is a protozoan parasite carried by a number of animal hosts. Giardia organisms for a resistant cyst that is excreted by the host in its waste. Infections are acquired by ingesting cysts in food or water, or by personal contact with an infected person. Effect on Humans Ingesting Giardia may result in Giardiasis, a gastrointestinal illness. High risk groups include the young, elderly, and individuals with immunocompromised systems.
Prescription medication is available to eliminate the parasite from one's intestinal tract.
Cryptosporidium Cryptosporidium is a protozoan, single-celled parasite, that is carried by animals and people. This protozoan forms an oocyst that is excreted in feces of infected animals and humans. Infections are acquired by ingesting oocysts in food or water, or personal contact with an infected individual. Effect on Humans Ingesting cryptosporidium may result in Cryptosporidiosis, a gastrointestinal illness. There is no drug that can be used to cure Cryptosporidiosis.