Giardiasis

Cases of Giardiasis are often seen in holiday hotels and many more holidaymakers are now aware of the disease.

If you have become ill with symptoms of Giardiasis whilst staying in a package holiday hotel abroad, you may be able to claim compensation when you return to the UK with our help.

Anne Thomson, Head of our Holiday Illness Compensation Claims Department, says: “I have handled thousands of holiday illness claims over the past 25 years, including those for holidaymakers suffering from Giardiasis. If you have suffered holiday illness as a result of Giardiasis and you want to claim compensation from the tour operator, call me directly on 080001 54321 or fill in the online claim form.”

What is Giardiasis?

Giardiasis is an infection caused by a parasite called Giardia Lamblia. Holidaymakers who are ill after ingesting liquids or food which are contaminated with giardia cysts are likely to suffer symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea. The illness is likely to occur anywhere in the world where standards of hygiene and sanitation are poor.

Causes of Giardiasis

Common causes of Giardiasis include:

• The consumption of food which is not stored, handled or cooked properly.
• The consumption of food or liquids which are contaminated with human sewage.
• Swallowing infected swimming pool water.

What are the symptoms of Giardiasis?

Common symptoms of Giardiasis include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, stomach cramps and flatulence.

How long do symptoms of Giardiasis last?

Symptons of Giardiasis may not even begin until a week after the disease has been contracted and can last for weeks or months depending on the severity of the strain. If Giardiasis goes untreated it can result in severe weight loss as patients stop absorbing food.

How to prevent Giardiasis on holiday

Holidaymakers can help avoid Giardiasis at a holiday hotel by:

• Only drinking water which is bottled with the seal intact.
• Only eating fruit which you can peel yourself.
• Washing your hands regularly, especially after using the bathroom.

What is the treatment for Giardiasis

Giardiasis may be treated with drugs which kill parasites but a doctor will prescribe the correct treatment depending on the severity of your illness. If you are only suffering from mild symptoms, the illness may clear up on its own, but it is always best to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Medication is usually prescribed to relieve symptoms and to avoid the spread of the disease.