Cysts form in the lower intestines and are then passed in the feces. The parasite may be directly transmitted from person to person by contact with infected feces, or indirectly, through consuming food and water contaminated with cyst-containing feces. The following are the most common symptoms of giardiasis. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. The time between infection and the onset of acute symptoms usually is from one to two weeks.
Some infected people have very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
The symptoms of giardiasis may resemble other gastrointestinal diseases. Consult a physician for diagnosis. Giardiasis cannot be prevented, but the spread of it can be contained by practicing good personal hygiene, as well as proper hygiene when caring for those who may be infected with the parasite. Positive diagnosis of giardiasis is made by microscopic identification of the parasite. Giardiasis may be treated with medications prescribed by a physician.