
3. Giardiasis
This infection occurs in the small intestine and is caused by a parasite called “Giardia lamblia.” Drinking water that has this parasite is the most typical way to develop giardiasis. Water that has been contaminated can be found in spas, swimming pools, and even on the toilet seats of public restrooms.
However, giardiasis is less frequently acquired from food since heat destroys the parasites. The parasite can spread through sloppy handling of food or consumption of vegetables that have been rinsed in contaminated water. If you happen to get giardiasis from a public bathroom, most likely you will experience symptoms of nausea, vomiting, bloating, frequent headaches, and, if it’s worse, diarrhea. To lower the risk of being contaminated with this parasite, wash your hands rigorously before and after using public bathrooms!