New UKHSA alert as ‘parasite’ cases rise to highest levels in a decade

New UKHSA alert as ‘parasite’ cases rise to highest levels in a decade Anyone can get the parasite but children are particularly at risk for side effects if left untreated New UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures have revealed that the UK is facing a rise in cases of Giardia, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the parasite Giardia intestinalis. Last year, cases of this disease reached the highest levels ever reported since 2016 in England, with London and the North West facing over 1,000 cases. Last year, the autumn months had the highest number of giardia cases, with hundreds being reported between October and November. The UKHSA is investigating reasons for the spike in cases but some theories include climate change, increased travel after the pandemic and more effective testing. What is Giardia Giardia or Giardiasis is a stomach bug caused by a microscopic parasite. Some people can be infected without even knowing it and because it is so easily spread, they may pass it on to others before experiencing any symptoms themselves. Nicola Love, Senior Food Safety Surveillance Lead at UKHSA, said: “We are seeing a rise in giardiasis in the UK. Symptoms can last from weeks to several months and if left untreated, it can cause serious complications especially in young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. “There are some simple precautions everyone can take to reduce their risk, whether you are planning an autumn getaway somewhere warm or staying in the UK. “Good hygiene can help prevent giardiasis and other common gastro illnesses. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet, after changing nappies, and before preparing food. “Encourage children to wash their hands regularly too. If you have a Giardia infection, continue to hydrate yourself and see your GP, do not go swimming until 2 weeks after your diarrhoea has stopped. Parents should contact their GP or NHS 111 if they or their children are ill with dehydration, or if diarrhoea worsens or lasts longer than 3 days.” Symptoms Common symptoms of giardiasis include: - smelly diarrhoea - tummy pain or cramps - farting (flatulence) - smelly burps – they may smell like eggs - bloating - weight loss People are the most infectious when the symptoms start up until two days after their symptoms have stopped. It’s recommended that people stay away from work and school until their symptoms have stopped for two days. While complications are rare, more vulnerable patients like children can develop more serious side effects like significant weight loss, malnutrition and stunted growth if they are left untreated. How it is spread There is no vaccine or medication to prevent giardiasis, but simple hygiene measures like frequently washing your hands, cleaning bathroom surfaces regularly and practicing good food hygiene can help prevent the spread. Giardia parasites can be picked up in the UK or abroad. It spreads through direct contact with infected people or animals, or by swallowing contaminated food or water. The UKHSA recommended international travellers take precautions when travelling abroad to reduce the risk of infection. This includes drinking bottled water rather than tap water and consuming cooked food rather than raw items such as salad vegetables washed in tap water. It also advised caution when swimming in rivers, lakes or the open sea where water could be contaminated. Treatment Treatment can include antibiotics to get rid of the parasite. The NHS also urges people to look after themselves at home by drinking lots of fluid to prevent dehydration.