Medical Parasitology Laboratory

A close up of an immature Triatoma insect (kissing bug), a known vector of Chagas disease.

^{An immature Triatomine bug, also known as a kissing bug. Image source: CDC/ Gary D. Alpert, Ph.D., Northern Arizona University, Department of Biological Sciences (2023)}

What We Do

The Medical Parasitology Team processes and examines submitted specimens including whole blood, blood smears, urine, stool, and individual worms, to detect parasite infections in humans. As the public health reference laboratory for the state of Texas, we coordinate with state and local epidemiologists and the CDC in the surveillance of medically important parasitic diseases. The Parasitology Team also examines specimens collected by the Refugee Health Program.

How to Use This Guide

The specimen submission and shipping guidance is for healthcare providers and clinical and reference laboratories who submit specimens to the DSHS Austin Laboratory for testing, outbreak, or surveillance purposes.
The information may be of interest to patients. Those who have concerns about parasitic diseases or who want to submit specimens for testing are encouraged to discuss those concerns with their healthcare provider. DSHS Laboratory staff cannot make treatment recommendations.
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