GIARDIA FACT SHEET

Brief Overview:
Contaminant: Giardia
Category: Microbiological
MCL:
Source: Human and animal fecal matter
Effect: Gastroenteric disease, diahhrea sometimes severe
Followup: Refer to water treatment specialist, boil water
Treatment: High level chlorination and micro-filtration

Details:
Source:
Infected humans and animals.

Effect:
Positive diagnosis needs to be performed by a physician (stool sample). Severe diahhrea which may not clear up without treatment. Other intestinal problems cramping etc. common. Certain individuals may have no symptoms yet be infected.

Followup:
Confirmed presence of giardia in a water supply is a serious matter that warrants immediate attention. Contact a water treatment specialist for treatment options. Normal treatment methods with UV and chlorination may be ineffective. Contact a physician for any health related concerns.

Treatment:
Refer to treatment specialist. Treatment normally consists of filtration and chlorination. Normal treatment methods (chlorination, UV etc.) are not fully effective.