New figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show that cases of Giardia, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the parasite Giardia intestinalis, have risen to their highest levels in England since 2016. Last year, London and the North West each reported over 1,000 cases.
Autumn spike and possible causes
The autumn months saw the highest number of giardia cases last year, with hundreds reported between October and November. The UKHSA is investigating the reasons for the spike, with theories including climate change, increased travel after the pandemic and more effective testing.
Giardia, also known as giardiasis, is a stomach bug caused by a microscopic parasite. Some people can be infected without knowing it, and because it is easily spread, they may pass it on to others before experiencing symptoms themselves.
Health advice and symptoms
Nicola Love, Senior Food Safety Surveillance Lead at UKHSA, said: “We are seeing a rise in giardiasis in the UK. Symptoms can last from weeks to several months and if left untreated, it can cause serious complications especially in young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
“There are some simple precautions everyone can take to reduce their risk, whether you are planning an autumn getaway somewhere warm or staying in the UK.
“Good hygiene can help prevent giardiasis and other common gastro illnesses. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet, after changing nappies, and before preparing food.
“Encourage children to wash their hands regularly too. If you have a Giardia infection, continue to hydrate yourself and see your GP, do not go swimming until 2 weeks after your diarrhoea has stopped. Parents should contact their GP or NHS 111 if they or their children are ill with dehydration, or if diarrhoea worsens or lasts longer than 3 days.”
Common symptoms of giardiasis include smelly diarrhoea, tummy pain or cramps, farting (flatulence), smelly burps that may smell like eggs, bloating and weight loss.
Spread and prevention
People are most infectious when symptoms start and for up to two days after they stop. It is recommended that people stay away from work and school until symptoms have stopped for two days. While complications are rare, more vulnerable patients such as children can develop serious side effects like significant weight loss, malnutrition and stunted growth if left untreated.
There is no vaccine or medication to prevent giardiasis, but simple hygiene measures like frequent hand washing, cleaning bathroom surfaces regularly and practising good food hygiene can help prevent the spread. The parasite can be picked up in the UK or abroad, spreading through direct contact with infected people or animals, or by swallowing contaminated food or water.
The UKHSA recommended international travellers take precautions abroad, including drinking bottled water rather than tap water and consuming cooked food rather than raw items such as salad vegetables washed in tap water. It also advised caution when swimming in rivers, lakes or the open sea where water could be contaminated.
Treatment
Treatment can include antibiotics to get rid of the parasite. The NHS also urges people to look after themselves at home by drinking plenty of fluid to prevent dehydration.
