Copyright © 1998 by Cynthia Teeters. All rights reserved. 

Giardiasis is a disease caused by the intestinal parasite, giardia lamblia. It is very common worldwide and is the most prevalent parasitic infection of children from institutions. Symptoms include those you would associate with gastrointestinal discomfort: diarrhea; cramps, bloating and gas; smelling stools; weakness, and weight loss. Often, though, the disease can occur without symptoms especially in those who have had the infection for some time.

Even in the absence of symptoms, the children are still being adversely affected by the disease wh ich may be a major contributor to the failure to thrive diagnosis given to many orphanage children. Additionally, an infected child poses the threat of communicating the infection to other family members, caregivers and other children.

Because of its prevalence and because of the health concerns, it is important to screen and treat giardiasis in newly adopted children. The most common medication for treating giardiasis, Flagyl, is not pleasant tasting, even by medicine standards. Some physicians treating younger patients have had success ordering a special tasting suspension for the drug. You may wish to ask your physician or pharmacist if this can be arranged.