The viability of Giardia intestinalis and Giardia muris cysts in seawater

The viability of Giardia intestinalis and Giardia muris cysts was determined by excystation at different temperatures (5, 10 and 15C) after exposure to seawater. This was compared with viability in freshwater (milli-Q water) at the same temperatures as controls. There was a significant reduction in viability after exposure to seawater. The significance of this to public health is discussed.