Symptoms usually appear in 14 days, but vary from 6 to 22 days after exposure to someone with the disease. Children are infected more often than adults.
Symptoms are generally mild - diarrhea, mushy pale greasy stools, lots of gas and bloating.
There are many persons who carry the Giardia organism but have no symptoms . It may also be spread by contaminated food and by untreated drinking water, especially in camping and rural areas. Protect public and private water supplies. Check with your doctor regarding appropriate medication. Children who have been treated and no longer have diarrhea may return to school.