is infection by a
Protozoa n, typically ''
Entamoeba Histolytica ''. It is usually contracted by ingesting water or food contaminated by amoebic cysts. Is usually included between the
Waterborne Diseases . Amoebiasis most commonly affects young to middle-aged adults.
Symptom s are usually gastrointestinal including
Diarrhoea ,
Vomit ing,
Abdominal Pain or discomfort and
Fever . Symptoms take from a few days to a few weeks to develop and manifest themselves, but usually it is about two to four weeks. Most infected people are asymptomatic but this disease has the potential to make the sufferer dangerously ill, especially if there is any suggestion of immunocompromise.
To help prevent the spread of amoebiasis around the home:
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and hot running water for at least 10 seconds after using the toilet or changing a baby's diaper.
Clean bathrooms and toilets often. Pay particular attention to toilet seats and taps.
Avoid sharing towels or face washers.
Diagnosis of amoebiasis is confirmed by finding cysts in the stools of the patient.
The first line
Antibiotic of choice in amoebiasis is
Metronidazole .
