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Amebiasis (Amoebiasis)

Please click the frequently asked questions below for further information and IPC precautions required:

  • What is Amebiasis (Amoebiasis)?

    Amebiasis is a disease caused by a one-celled parasite called Entamoeba histolytica.

  • Why is this information important?

    If NIAS staff are aware that the patient has a suspected or confirmed case this should be communicated to the Control Room (Emergency or Non-emergency as appropriate) and the staff in the receiving unit when transferring the patient to ensure effective patient care and management.

  • How is it spread?

    Infection can occur when a person:

    • Puts anything into their mouth that has touched the faeces of a person who is infected with E. histolytica.
    • Swallows something, such as water or food, that is contaminated with E. histolytica.
    • Swallows E. histolytica cysts (eggs) picked up from contaminated surfaces or fingers.
  • What are the symptoms?

    Only about 10% to 20% of people who are infected with E. histolytica become sick from the infection.

    The symptoms are often quite mild and can include:

    • Diarrhoea
    • Stomach pain
    • Stomach cramping.

    Amebic dysentery is a severe form of amebiasis associated with stomach pain, bloody stools, and fever.

    Rarely, E. histolytica invades the liver and forms an abscess (a collection of pus). In a small number of instances, it has been shown to spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or brain, but this is very uncommon.

  • IPC Precautions
    • Contact precautions should be used.
    • Hand Hygiene should be completed as per the 5 moments in line with usual practice with Soap and Water
    • Eye protection should be risk assessed and worn if any risk of splashes.
    • Gloves and Aprons should be worn.
    • The patient should be transported via ambulance with no other patients present.
    • Laundry should be treated as contaminated, placed into an alginate bag and placed into a red laundry bag.
  • What cleaning is required?

    All equipment and the ambulance should have an in-between patient clean paying particular attention to touch points.

  • Do staff need any prophylaxis or follow up?

    If staff have been exposed to a confirmed or suspected case they should remain vigilant for any symptoms but there is no active follow up required.