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.
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).
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