Question

Which protist is a concern because of its ability to contaminate water supplies and cause diarrheal illness? a. Plasmodium vivax b. Toxoplasma gondii c. Giardia lamblia d. Trichomonas vaginalis

Short answer

c. Giardia lamblia

Step-by-step solution

Understand the question

The question is asking for the name of a protist that is known for contaminating water supplies and causing diarrheal illness.

Analyze the given options

The exercise provides four options. Let's break down each one to determine which protist matches the given criteria.

Evaluate each option

**Option a: Plasmodium vivax** - This protist causes malaria and is transmitted through mosquito bites. It does not contaminate water supplies.**Option b: Toxoplasma gondii** - This protist causes toxoplasmosis, often transmitted through undercooked meat or cat feces. It isn't typically associated with water contamination or diarrheal illness.**Option c: Giardia lamblia** - This protist is well known for causing giardiasis, a diarrheal illness that spreads through contaminated water supplies.**Option d: Trichomonas vaginalis** - This protist causes trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection, and is not related to water contamination.

Choose the correct answer

Based on the evaluation, the correct answer is Giardia lamblia, as it contaminates water supplies and causes diarrheal illness.

Key concepts

Giardia lamblia

Giardia lamblia is a microscopic parasite that can cause a disease known as giardiasis. This protist lives in the intestines of infected humans or animals. It is notable for its distinct appearance under a microscope, resembling a small, smiling face due to its unique structure.

Giardia lamblia has two forms: the active trophozoite and the dormant cyst. The cyst form is hardy and able to survive in the environment for long periods, making it a major culprit in waterborne outbreaks. When these cysts are ingested through contaminated water, they transform into the trophozoite form in the intestines and start to multiply. This process can lead to a wide range of gastrointestinal symptoms.

Water Contamination

Water contamination with Giardia lamblia often occurs when water sources become tainted with fecal matter from infected humans or animals. This contamination can happen in multiple ways, including:

• Runoff from agricultural areas
• Seepage from sewage or wastewater
• Direct contamination from infected individuals in swimming pools or recreational water bodies

To prevent water contamination, it is crucial to treat water sources properly. This involves adequate filtration, chlorination, and boiling when necessary. Public health guidelines strongly emphasize these measures to reduce the risk of giardiasis and other waterborne diseases.

Additionally, individuals should be cautious about the water they consume and use for personal hygiene, especially when traveling or in areas with known water quality issues.

Diarrheal Diseases

Diarrheal diseases are a significant global health concern. These illnesses can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and even death, especially in young children and immunocompromised individuals. Many factors can cause diarrheal diseases, including:

• Bacterial infections (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella)
• Viral infections (e.g., Rotavirus, Norovirus)
• Parasitic infections, like those from Giardia lamblia

These diseases are often spread through contaminated food or water, close contact with infected individuals, or poor sanitation practices. Effective treatment usually involves rehydration, either through oral rehydration solutions or intravenous fluids in severe cases. Prevention is key and includes measures like proper hand hygiene, safe water practices, and good sanitation.

Giardiasis

Giardiasis is the disease caused by infection with Giardia lamblia. Symptoms of giardiasis can range from mild to severe and typically include:

• Watery diarrhea
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Bloating and gas
• Nausea and vomiting

These symptoms can lead to dehydration and nutrient malabsorption. Diagnosis of giardiasis generally involves stool tests to detect the presence of Giardia cysts or trophozoites. Once confirmed, treatment usually includes medications like metronidazole or tinidazole.

In addition to medical treatment, managing giardiasis involves maintaining proper hydration and following a bland diet to ease gastrointestinal symptoms. Public awareness and adherence to hygiene and water safety practices play essential roles in preventing the spread of this infectious disease.