Pet Owners and Giardia Infection Challenge: A One-Health Matter

The close living of humans and animals is increasing in developing and developed societies in a new way. Along with the pet-keeping benefits, disadvantages such as the possibility of transmission of infections, especially parasitic infections, are also considered in this relationship. Giardiasis, as a worldwide health problem caused by different species of Giardia protozoa, accounts for significant morbidity and mortality annually. Considering the zoonotic potential of this intestinal parasite, there is a possibility of direct transmission from animals to humans or infection acquisition from the environment, which makes it a one-health-related issue. Some species or assemblages are specific to the host and are unable to cause disease; thus, they cause symptoms in other non-specific hosts, such as humans. There are several risk factors for the occurrence and prevalence rate of giardiasis from pet owners, the most important of which are the animal (infected or suspected) contact, the levels of hygiene and health awareness of people, contact with suspected or contaminated soil, and the like. Although effective preventive and control measures have been defined, they have been neglected in some populations. The present review attempts to provide a snapshot of the giardiasis situation among pet owners.