Babesiosis (Babesia) is a malaria-like infection caused by several Babesia (B.) protozoa that parasitize red blood cells. There is one species in the East (B. microti) and newly described species from the midwest and West coast. The black-legged tick and probably the Western black-legged tick transmit the parasites.


Signs/Symptoms:
Fever, chills, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, and anemia. A blood test may reveal the parasite in red blood cells. Chronic mild infection occurs. Babesiosis is more severe, and sometimes fatal, in elderly people or in those who have had their spleens removed. Immunosuppression may occur.

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