Giardia Lamblia

Giardia lamblia is a microscopic parasite found in contaminated water. It causes intestinal illness and enters water through feces of infected animals or humans.

Giardia lamblia is a resilient, single-celled parasite that forms protective cysts. It's commonly found in untreated surface water sources like lakes and streams. Giardia is resistant to chlorine disinfection, making it challenging to eliminate through standard water treatment. Water systems test for Giardia by filtering large volumes of water and examining for cysts under a microscope. Proper water treatment, including filtration and UV disinfection, is crucial for prevention, along with good hygiene practices.

People affected
14.1M
Utilities with this contaminant
87
States with this contaminant
17

Utilities with the highest levels of this contaminant

UtilityService AreasLevelPopulation Served
New York City System
New York City, NY

10.667

8,271,000

Delano, City Of
Delano, CA

5.000 positive samples

51,428

West Morgan-East Lawrence Water Authorit
Decatur, AL

5.000 organisms/l

30,000

V.A.W. Water System, Inc
Vinemont, AL

2.550 organisms/l

16,836

West Jordan City Water System
Salt Lake County, UT

1.500

113,699

Joint Base Anacostia - Bolling
DC

1.380 organisms/l

17,201

Clarksburg Water Board
Clarksburg, WV

1.000

18,006

Bridgeport City Of
Bridgeport, WV

1.000

10,775

Cedar Grove Water Dept
Cedar Grove Twp.-0704, NJ

0.830 organisms/l

12,900

Northeast Alabama Water System
Fort Payne, AL

0.767 organisms/l

47,058

Sources