Office of Communicable Diseases

Giardiasis

Giardiasis (GEE-are-DYE-uh-sis) is a diarrheal illness caused by Giardia intestinalis (also known as Giardia lamblia), a one-celled, microscopic parasite that lives in the intestine of people and animals. The parasite is passed in the stool of an infected person or animal. The parasite is protected by an outer shell that allows it to survive outside the body and in the environment for long periods of time. During the past 2 decades, Giardia has become recognized as one of the most common causes of waterborne disease (drinking and recreational) in humans in the United States. The parasite is found in every region of the United States and throughout the world.

Information on the disease and its prevention  
(forwarded to CDC web site).

What are the Giardiasis rates in Rhode Island?

Who can I contact at the Department of Health about Amebiasis?

Call the Office of Communicable Diseases at 401-222-2577.