Norris Harber --
 
_Giardia_ is a protozoa that can infect the intestines.  In humans, it
doesn't cause very much actual distress, just loose stools.  The problem is
that the protozoa will eventually eat holes in the intestinal wall, which
is why doctors take it very seriously.  It can be contracted in a variety
of ways, the most common (around here) is by drinking stream water while
hiking in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
 
I don't know if it harms ferrets' intestinal walls as it does ours, you
could ask Dr. Williams.  Considering how we cuddle our pets, you might also
want to get yourself tested.
 
<Anon>
 
[Posted in FML issue 0752]