[Campbell Biology P.647] A group of campers is planning a trip to a remote area with access ... | Practice Question

A group of campers is planning a trip to a remote area with access to seemingly fresh stream water. Based on the information provided about Giardia intestinalis , what preventative measure should they take before consuming the stream water to avoid infection?

  • A: Add chlorine tablets to the water.
  • B: Boil the water for at least one minute.
  • C: Filter the water through a fine mesh cloth.
  • D: Drink only from fast-flowing sections of the stream.

Explanation

The information provided about Giardia intestinalis explicitly states: 'Drinking such water—even from a seemingly pristine stream—can cause severe diarrhea. Boiling the water kills the parasite.' Therefore, boiling is the recommended preventative measure.