POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION OF SURFACE WATERS WITH GIARDIA SPP THROUGH MUSKRATS

Muskrats were examined for Giardia infections. Collected faecal sample s were processed by means of sucrose density gradient centrifugation, using a 1 M sucrose solution. Identification of cysts was done by phas e contrast microscopy, by the immunofluorescence test, or by both meth ods. From July 1994 to September 1995, a total of 234 muskrats from tw o different geographical areas in western parts of Germany were examin ed for the presence of Giardia cysts. 176 animals (75.2%) were found t o be Giardia-positive, This study corroborates the assumption that ani mals such as muskrats living close to surface water bodies could conta minate water bodies with parasites such as Giardia.