CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND—A research team from the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford examined sediment samples taken from third-century A.D. sewer drains at Vindolanda, a Roman fort near Hadrian’s Wall in northern England, according to a statement from the University of Cambridge. Despite the presence of shared latrines, Roman soldiers at the fort still faced serious health risks due to unsanitary conditions and polluted food and water supplies. Microscopic analysis revealed the presence of roundworm and whipworm eggs, while Giardia duodenalis was identified using ELISA testing, a technique in which antibodies bind to proteins produced by single-celled organisms. This marks the first recorded identification of the protozoan Giardia duodenalis in Roman Britain. “Although the Romans understood intestinal worms, their medical practitioners had few effective treatments to eliminate these parasites or relieve diarrhea, allowing infections to continue and worsen,” said Marissa Ledger of the University of Cambridge. “Such long-term infections likely weakened the soldiers and impaired their ability to perform their duties.” The original academic study can be found in the journal Parasitology.