Warning to dog owners over deadly parasite risk at RAF Henlow

The RAF issued a warning yesterday (Thursday) for people to ensure their dog stayed on the lead at all times on the North site at RAF Henlow and stayed off the grass.

The warning is expected to be downgraded today but walkers should be aware.

Warrant Officer Guy Mossman said the warning was a precautionary measure while the authorities confirm where a possible infection came from. No dogs in henlow have so far been affected.

Giardia is a parasite which can grow in the intestines of infected humans or animals and cause giardiasis. Diarrhoea is the most common symptom of giardiasis. Other symptoms include abdominal cramps, bloating and flatulence.

Giardiasis can be transmitted by direct contact with infected animals or humans, or by consumption of water, food or beverages contaminated by the faeces of infected animals or humans. People may also be infected by swimming in contaminated water (for example in lakes or rivers). Many cases are associated with foreign travel.

The incubation period, the delay between infection and the appearance of symptoms, is 5 to 25 days.