The Hopkins County Health Department is investigating the recent Giardia outbreak and found that it has a direct link to El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant in Madisonville, Kentucky. Health department officials report that there seems to be a high degree of commonality between the restaurant and those experiencing symptoms.
Temperature issues in El Tapatio restaurant's walk-in-freezer are suspect and resulted in a temporary closing to address maintenance issues and food service training. While initial data points to the restaurant as the source, health officials are also considering other potential sources of this outbreak. Health officials have determined that public drinking water does not seem to be of concern in Hopkins County.
What is Giardia?
Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes a gastrointestinal infection known as giardiasis. This single-celled organism, scientifically classified as Giardia lamblia (also known as Giardia intestinalis), can infect the intestines of humans and various animals, leading to digestive issues.
What are common sources of Giardia?
Giardia is typically transmitted through the fecal-oral route. Parasites can spread to humans when someone consumes food or water with the feces of an infected person or animal. Common sources include:
- Contaminated Water: Giardia is often found in untreated water sources, such as lakes, rivers, and streams. It can withstand chlorine disinfection, making it a concern for public water supplies if not properly treated.
- Food: Consuming food that has been washed with contaminated water or prepared by someone who is infected can lead to infection.
- Close Contact: Person-to-person transmission can occur, especially in settings like daycare centers or among individuals who have poor hygiene practices.
- Animal Contact: Pets, particularly dogs and cats, can harbor Giardia and transmit it to humans.
What are Symptoms of Giardia?
The symptoms of giardiasis can vary and may not appear until one to three weeks after exposure. Common symptoms include: Diarrhea (which may be watery and foul-smelling), Abdominal cramps, Bloating and gas, Nausea, Fatigue and Weight loss (in prolonged cases). Some individuals may be asymptomatic, which means carrying the parasite without exhibiting any symptoms.
Symptoms usually begin 1 -2 weeks after exposure and last for up to 2 to 6 weeks. Occasionally, those sickened can experience long term symptoms for several years.
How is Giardia diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosing giardiasis typically involves stool tests to detect the presence of Giardia cysts or antigens. In some cases, multiple tests may be necessary, as the parasite can be intermittently shed in the stool.
Treatment for giardiasis usually involves prescription medications, such as metronidazole, tinidazole, or nitazoxanide. Most individuals recover completely with proper treatment, although some may experience lingering symptoms.
If you or a family member became ill with Giardia and feel that you may be part of this outbreak, please contact Marler Clark for a free consultation.