Rogues' Gallery

“Beaver fever”, giardiasis

A sneaky little protozoan parasite that loves to crash your water party, spreading through faecally-contaminated drinking or recreational water.

Loiters in untreated or poorly treated water from lakes, rivers, swimming pools, springs, ponds, and streams. Can even sneak into municipal water supplies.

Causes giardiasis (a mix of diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, dehydration and smelly gas!). Especially mean to kids and those with weaker immune systems.

Municipal water is generally safe, but if you're concerned, use a certified water filter, boil your water, and avoid swallowing poorly or untreated water.