Amebiasis is an infection in the intestines, though it can sometimes spread to other organs caused by the parasite, Entamoeba histolytica.
You can become infected by drinking water or eating food that is contaminated with this parasite. You can also become sick by touching stool or objects contaminated by stool, and then touching your mouth with unwashed hands. Sexual practices that result in hand or mouth contact with stool can also spread the infection.
Amebiasis is more likely to occur in:
If you are exposed to this parasite, you can experience mild or severe symptoms, or no symptoms at all. Most people do not become seriously ill.
Symptoms can begin a few days to a few months after exposure. However, symptoms usually appear two to four weeks after exposure. Common symptoms include nausea, diarrhea and stomach pain and cramping.
Amebic dysentery is a severe form of amebiasis that can cause frequent stools with blood or mucus, stomach pain and fever. Rarely, the parasite will spread and cause a more serious infection, such as a liver abscess.
Once infected, you can carry and shed the parasite for years, often without symptoms.
Health care providers can detect amebiasis through stool tests and prescribe medication for treatment.
Since the parasite is found in the stool, people should stay home from work, school or child care if they cannot control their bowel movements. That includes infants, young children and people with certain types of disabilities.
Food handlers, health care workers and children in day care must get approval from the Health Department before they can return to work or school. This involves follow-up stool testing.