Watch Out: Giardia Infections Reported at New Hampshire Spring

Health officials are warning the public after five people fell ill from drinking water at a natural spring in Bethlehem, New Hampshire.

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services reports that the individuals contracted giardia, a microscopic parasite that can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea.

The spring in question was used by the sickened individuals last month, and authorities are now urging anyone who has also consumed water from the site to closely monitor themselves for any signs of illness. WGME is reporting that officials advise discarding any water collected from the spring until it has been properly tested and cleared.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services is stepping in to take water samples from the spring to check for giardia and other harmful bacteria or parasites.

The investigation is ongoing, and state officials stress the importance of taking precautions when drinking from natural water sources, which can carry germs even in seemingly clean mountain streams, WGME said.

This serves as a reminder to always treat or test water from natural springs before consumption, especially during the warmer months when parasites like giardia are more common.

Additionally, if you have pets, this is also a reminder that dogs are especially susceptible to this illness as well and can cause the same symptoms that humans also experience when infected with giardia.