Management strategies for human babesiosis

Abstract

Introduction: Human babesiosis is reported throughout the world and is endemic in the northeastern and northern Midwestern United States and northeastern China. Transmission is primarily through hard bodied ticks. Most cases of severe disease occur in immunocompromised individuals and may result in prolonged relapsing disease or death.

Areas covered: We provide a summary of evidence supporting current treatment recommendations for immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals experiencing babesiosis.

Expert opinion: Most cases of human babesiosis are successfully treated with atovaquone and azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine. Severe disease may require prolonged treatment.

Keywords: Babesia; asplenia; blood transfusion; disease management; drug therapy; hemolysis; human babesiosis; immunocompromised; ticks; zoonosis.