What bacteria causes babesiosis?

Babesiosis is a rare, sometimes severe, disease caused by the bite of a tick infected with Babesia microti, a microscopic (tiny, not seen without a microscope) parasite that infects red blood cells.

Is babesiosis an infectious disease?

Human babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne infectious disease caused by protozoa of the genus Babesia that are obligate parasites of red blood cells. Long recognized as pathogens imposing a significant health burden on domesticated animals, Babesia spp.

Does babesiosis resolve on its own?

Although babesiosis can be dangerous, it’s quite rare, and most people who develop it don’t need treatment. Babesiosis usually goes away on its own in about 1 or 2 weeks.

Can babesiosis be treated?

For ill patients, babesiosis usually is treated for at least 7-10 days with a combination of two prescription medications — typically either: Atovaquone PLUS azithromycin; OR. Clindamycin PLUS quinine (this combination is the standard of care for severely ill patients).

Can tick-borne diseases be cured?

Symptoms of the virus can include rash, fever, nausea, body aches, tiredness, headache, and vomiting. There is no cure for an infection. Treatment may include IV fluids and pain medications.

What tick-borne diseases can humans get?

Some of the most common tick-borne diseases in the United States include: Lyme disease, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, anaplasmosis, Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness, Tick-Borne Relapsing Fever, and tularemia.

What does ehrlichiosis do to the body?

Ehrlichiosis is an illness caused by bacteria. It is spread by ticks. The illness causes fever, muscle aches, and other symptoms. It’s an uncommon illness that can affect people of all ages.

What is the best treatment for babesiosis?

For ill patients, babesiosis usually is treated for at least 7-10 days with a combination of two prescription medications — typically either:

  • Atovaquone PLUS azithromycin; OR.
  • Clindamycin PLUS quinine (this combination is the standard of care for severely ill patients).

What is the most common tick-borne disease?

Lyme disease is the most commonly reported tick-borne disease in the United States. In 2010, more than 22,500 confirmed and 7,500 probable cases of Lyme disease were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).