User:Mr. Ibrahem/Babesiosis

Babesiosis is a parasitic infection due to Babesia. Symptoms vary from none to a flu-like illness and jaundice. Onset of symptoms is one to six weeks following infection. Complications may include red blood cell breakdown or disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC). It may present with other tick-borne illnesses, such as Lyme disease.

Spread is mostly by bites from ticks infected with Babesia, particularly deer ticks. Other methods of spread include blood transfusions from an infected donor, or during pregnancy from an infected mother to her baby. It does not directly spread between people. Risks for severe disease include no spleen, weakened immune system, and older age. The underlying mechanism involves infection of red blood cells. Diagnosis may be supported by a urine test showing hemoglobin or a high lactate dehydrogenase; and confirmed by a thin blood smear or polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Prevention is by avoiding ticks, using tick repellent, staying covered, and checking for ticks after being outside. In those without symptoms, treatment is often no needed. In those with symptoms, atovaquone plus azithromycin is often used for 7 to 10 days. Another option is clindamycin plus quinine. Exchange transfusion may be used in those with severe disease.

Babesiosis occurs worldwide. In the United States it is most common in the Northeast and Midwest, with about 1,800 cases being reported in 2020. It occurs most often when weather is warm. The cause of the disease was first identified in 1888 by Victor Babes.