The Vermont Department of Health Laboratory (VDHL) tests for intestinal parasites in patient stool specimens. A total of three stool specimens (all collected on different days) should be submitted in the VDHL Kit # 2, which contains a specimen preservative, called “Total-Fix” preservative.
Test Options
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Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for Giardia and/or Cryptosporidium
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Microscopic examination for ova, larva, and cysts of parasites
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Cyclospora identification using the Acid Fast staining techniques
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Pinworm identification by microscopic identification (request VDHL Kit # 6, Pinworm Paddle)
Serology Specimen Submission for Parasitic Diseases
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The Vermont Department of Health Laboratory can also send serology specimens to the Centers for Disease Control for additional or unusual parasite testing.
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Information on submitting serology specimens to the CDC through the Vermont Department of Health Laboratory
Visit our Forms & Ordering Information page for information on specimen submission requirements or available tests.
There are three main classes of parasites that can cause disease in humans: protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites.