Intestinal parasites are micro organisms that live in the intestines. Some cause immediate problems while others can live for long periods in the bowel without causing symptoms or requiring the host to seek treatment.
A parasite survives by hijacking another organism. It uses up the organism’s nutrients and leaves behind toxic waste products.
Obviously, we would be much happier without having these minuscule hangers-on around!
Types of parasite
There are 4 different groups of parasite: roundworms, single-celled protozoa, tapeworms and flukes.
Roundworms: these may affect up to 25% of the world’s population. They range from the blood sucking hookworm that can grow to the size of a pencil to the highly contagious pinworms which are commonly picked up in crowded areas such as schools.
Protozoa: minuscule, single-celled organisms, protozoa form cysts, or a resting stage, where they become resistant to temperature extremes, chemicals and drying. Humans can easily ingest these small cysts and many of us have been exposed. Usually they’re kept in check by our immune systems, but if we become run down due to stress or illness an outbreak can occur.
Tapeworms: common throughout the world, tapeworms are long and ribbon-like. Humans can ingest tapeworm larvae by eating raw or undercooked beef, pork and fish or by coming into contact with infected animals or contaminated grains. Tapeworms live in our intestines and absorb nutrients through their skin.
Flukes: these are tiny flat worms that look like odd-shaped pancakes. Humans can become infected by eating raw or undercooked seafood, infected vegetation such as water chestnuts or watercress or by drinking or wading in infected water. Once inside the body, flukes migrate to various organs and may cause liver swelling, jaundice, weakened lungs and blood clots.
There are over 100 different types of parasites that can live in human hosts - and parasitic infections are on the rise.
US Custom changes Aug 29 2025
Every US shipment, regardless of value or content, must now undergo full entry with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Our lab partners are working hard to reduce the impact of these new customs procedures on returning US bound test samples.
Unfortunately this change may impact your test results turnaround time
Transit times may be longer due to increased customs processing.
Samples may be delayed or held while clearance is completed.
If you have already sent back your sample and it is directly affected by these customs delays, our team will contact you individually to advise on the next steps.
We know how vital timely testing is for you and we greatly value your understanding while these changes take effect.
We expect the situation to improve as customs processes adjust, and we will provide updates as this develops.
Please do not return samples to the laboratories that may arrive after Wednesday 27th March and up to and including Monday 2nd April.
The laboratories are closed from the 28th March – 2nd April for the Easter Holiday.
