Abstract: In various aspects, a multiplex primer set, a kit for performing an assay to detect microsporidia, and a method of identifying a microsporidia in a sample is provided. The multiplex PCR primer set including SEQ ID NOS 1-4. The kit includes a multiplex PCR primer set having SEQ ID NOS 1-4 and a set of probes having SEQ ID NOS 5-8. In the method a sample is obtained and a multiplex PCR assay is performed on the sample. A multiplex PCR primer set including SEQ ID NOS 1-4 is included in the multiplex PCR assay. The sample is determined to have the microsporidia in response to the multiplex PCR assay amplifying a target sequence associated with microsporidia.

Abstract: Disclosed is a rapid, dual purpose, PCR-based method for identifying two or more pathogens, including Giardia and/or Cryptosporidium, in an extracted sample, such as stool or environmental (soil, water) isolates, in individual real-time PCR reactions. This method is of particular utility for clinical, veterinary, and environmental testing applications. The present methods are more sensitive than conventional ELISA or IFA-based methods of detection. An internal control (IC) for use in the PCR based nucleic acid detection method is also disclosed.