What is the infectious agent that causes amebiasis?
Amebiasis is caused by Entamoeba histolytica, a microscopic one-celled parasite. The parasite produces cysts that are passed in the stool of infected persons. The cysts can survive in the environment in water and food and on surfaces and objects. Where is amebiasis found? The parasite that causes amebiasis is found in the United States and around the world. How do people get amebiasis? People get amebiasis when they swallow Entamoeba histolytica cysts. This can happen by: • Putting anything into the mouth that has touched the stool of an infected person • Swallowing water or food that has been contaminated with Entamoeba histolytica • Touching and bringing to the mouth cysts picked up from surfaces contaminated with Entamoeba histolytica What are the signs and symptoms of amebiasis? In most persons, the parasite lives in the intestine and does not cause illness, or causes mild intestinal symptoms. Symptoms of the mild form of amebiasis include loose or watery stools, abdominal tenderne
