Babesia

Babesia Latest News

Two lion cubs recently died in Gujarat’s Gir National Park region due to a suspected Babesia infection.

About Babesia

• Babesia is a genus of microscopic parasites that infect the red blood cells (RBCs) of animals and humans, causing the disease known as babesiosis. 
• These protozoa are transmitted mainly by the bite of ticks, primarily by the Ixodes tick, also known as a deer tick, which is also responsible for transmitting other diseases, such as Lyme disease. 
• Babesiosis can affect both animals and humans, although it is much more common in animals, especially cattle, dogs, and other mammals. 
• Human infection is more common in areas where ticks are common. 
• The geographical distribution of Babesia is primarily in the Americas, especially in the Northeast region, as well as regions of Europe and Asia. 
• Is Babesiosis Contagious?
  • No, babesiosis isn’t contagious from person to person. 
  • Rarely, Babesia is transmitted from a pregnant women to the fetus.
• Symptoms: 
  • Although many people may develop no or only very mild symptoms, in severe cases it can cause high fever, fatigue, anemia, and other problems related to the destruction of RBCs.
  • In dangerous cases, babesiosis can lead to complications such as respiratory failure, kidney failure, liver failure, heart problems, and/or coagulopathy. 
• Treatment:
  • Treatment for babesiosis usually involves a combination of antimicrobial drugs, as the infection is caused by a parasite. 
  • The most recommended is a combination therapy of two drugs, atovaquone (antiparasitic) and azithromycin (antibiotic). 

Source: TH

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