GIARDIA AND CRYPTOSPORIDIUM PARASITES..
They live in the human intestine and cause diarrohea, nausea, abdominal cramps, weakness and chronic fatigue. These debilitating symptoms may persist for months.

Media Release - The Hon Dr Michael Wooldridge, Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care ..September 2000

The Ministers said that Cryptosporidium and Giardia occasionally occur in drinking water supplies following contamination by human or animal faeces. This may occur during periods of unusually high rainfall when they can enter the water supply via surface run-off. This is what happened in 1998 in Sydney, resulting in people having to boil their drinking water.

Both organisms can infect the gastrointestinal tract of humans, resulting in persistent diarrhoea. In severely immuno-compromised people, the infection can be life threatening.

How do these parasites cause illness?
Both parasites produce cysts that are very resistant to harsh environmental conditions. When ingested, they germinate, reproduce, and cause illness. After feeding, the parasites form new cysts, which are then passed in the faeces. Studies with human volunteers have shown that ingestion of only a few cysts will cause illness.

What are the symptoms?
Diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, gas, malaise, and weight loss are the most common symptoms caused by Giardia. Vomiting, chills, headache, and fever may also occur. These symptoms usually surface six to 16 days after the initial contact and can continue as long as one month.