Giardiasis in Iraq: A Review

Abstract

Background: Giardiasis, is a disease caused by the Giadia lambilia , found in many regions of the world, including Iraq. It affects different age groups of people, especially children and causes symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea and weight loss. The aim of this review is to find the prevalence of giardiasis among many cities and governorates in Iraq and the extent of the influence of age, sex, area of residence and seasons of the year on its spread. Conclusion: Numerous previous studies indicated the spread of giardiasis in many cities and governorates in Iraq and the young age group showed a higher rate of prevalence than the other groups. Males are also recorded higher infection rate than females. Also, the infection rate in rural areas was higher than in urban areas. It is also evident that the seasons had an effect on the parasite's existence and, consequently, the spread of this sickness.