GIARDIASIS AND OTHER INTESTINAL PARASITIC INFECTIONS IN A MANITOBA RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL FOR THE MENTALLY-RETARDED

  • 1 January 1980
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 122  (2) , 185-188
Abstract
A case of severely symptomatic giardiasis in a school for the mentally retarded prompted an epidemiologic survey of the institution. The rate of parasitic infection in the children was just under 50%. Multiple infections were common and 1 child harbored 5 different protozoa. The yield included known pathogens (Giardia lamblia, Metorchis conjunctus and Diphyllobothrium sp.), protozoa of potential pathogenicity (Dientamoeba fragilis) and other protozoa, the significance of which were yet to be determined. The prevalence of G. lamblia in the index ward was significantly higher than in a control ward matched for age and mobility of the children. Person-to-person transmission of G. lamblia within the institution is suggested. Recommendations for the control of protozoal intestinal infections in custodial institutions are presented.

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