Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Giardia. You are most likely to be exposed to Giardia from contaminated water during a camping trip, international travel, or from drinking well-water. You may also become infected by eating contaminated undercooked food. Exposure to the stool of someone who`s infected can also cause infection. A distinctive and classic symptom of Giardia is eruptions (or burps) that smell like sulfur.

Call your health care provider if you have:

• Diarrhea, which often comes and goes.
• Stomach bloating or fullness.
• Upset stomach (nausea) or vomiting.
• Unplanned weight loss.
• Blood in your stool.
• Dehydration.

Call 911 if you have:

• Uncontrolled vomiting.
• Severe belly pain.

You will be examined and will likely have a stool sample checked in a lab. This stool is checked for the parasite that causes the disease. If giardiasis is suspected or confirmed, you will be prescribed an antibiotic that you take for 5 to 7 days. In many cases, this clears the infection.

Take these steps to help prevent infection with Giardia:

• Wash your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold) after using the bathroom and before eating. Wash for at least 20 seconds. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers may not work against Giardia.
• Wash your hands each time you change a child's diaper.
• Don't drink from rivers and streams.
• Use a water treatment kit when camping.
• Wash or peel raw fruits and vegetables before using.