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Giardia
may or may not be present, but veterans of the backcountry
assume that all sources are contaminated, and filter or boil
all of their water.
The Disease--Symptoms
and Treatment:
Although
giardiasis can be incapacitating, it is not usually life-threatening.
After ingestion by humans, giardia normally attach themselves
to the small intestine.
Disease
symptoms include diarrhea, increased gas, loss of appetite,
abdominal cramps, and bloating. Weight loss may occur from
nausea and loss of appetite. These discomfort may first appear
a few days to a few weeks after ingestion of giardia, and
may last up to six weeks. Most people are unaware they have
been infected, and often have returned home before the onset
of symptoms.
If not
treated, the symptoms may disappear on their own, only to
recur intermittently over a period of many months. Other diseases
have similar symptoms, but if you did drink untreated water
you should suspect giardiasis and inform your doctor. With
proper diagnosis the disease is curable with medication prescribed
by a physician.
Protect
Yourself:
There
are several ways to treat raw waters so it is safe to drink--please
check with the Ranger District where your trip is planned
for more information. For short trips, take supply of water
from home or other domestic, know-to-be-tested and safe source.
The use of water filters/purifiers is encouraged, however,
ensure that the filter is serviceable and that you fully understand
the operation and maintenance of the unit.
Protect
Others:
Giardia
can be readily transmitted between humans and animals. Feces
(human or animal) can contain the organism. Human waste should
be buried 8-inches deep, and at least 200 feet away from water
sources.
Dogs,
like humans, can get infected with giardiasis. Unless they
are carefully controlled, dogs can contaminate the water and
continue the chain of infection from animals to humans. For
this reason, and others, the inclusion of dogs in your travel
plans should be carefully considered.
In the
established campgrounds of the Custer National Forest, the
well water has been tested, and is potable.
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