Giardiasis is a diarrheal disease caused by microscopic parasites called giardia. These parasites can live in the intestines of many mammals, including humans. Although many species of giardia are found worldwide, only giardia lamblia causes infection in humans. Giardiasis is a common cause of waterborne disease in humans and is sometimes called "beaver fever".
Local Information
2023 Statistics
Incidence rate is the number of new cases of disease divided by the number of persons at risk for the disease during a particular time period.
Cases:
14*
*Includes confirmed cases in 2023.
Incidence rate per 100,000 in 2023: 10.2
Incidence Rate per 100,000 of Giardiasis by year
Data Sources |
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More Information about Giardiasis |
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Public Health Agency of Canada: English and Français Ministry of Health: Parasites on Produce: Giardia: English and Français |
Reporting |
| Report to the Health Unit by next business day by phone at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229 if giardiasis is suspected or confirmed, as per Ontario Regulation 135/18 and amendments under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, R.S.O., c.H.7. |
Should one go to childcare, school, or work if they have giardiasis? |
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Exclude symptomatic food handlers, healthcare providers, and childcare staff and attendees until 24 hours after diarrhea has stopped, regardless of taking antibiotics or not. If anti-diarrheal medication is taken, exclude until 48 hours after diarrhea has stopped. Follow the direction of your healthcare provider, public health case manager, or occupational health at your workplace. |
Healthcare Provider Information |
Contact our Communicable Disease Control (CDC) program at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229, or by email to cdc@healthunit.ca for more information.
Last updated: August 2024