Babesiosis

• Fever and chills
• Sweats
• Headache
• Muscle aches and joint pain
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Jaundice (in severe cases due to hemolytic anemia)
• Dark urine (in severe cases)

Babesiosis is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected *Ixodes* (deer) ticks, most commonly during their nymphal stage. Less common routes of transmission include contaminated blood transfusions and, rarely, congenital transmission from an infected mother to her baby. It is not spread directly from person to person.

• Avoid tick-infested areas (tall grass, wooded areas).
• Wear long pants and sleeves when outdoors, tucking pants into socks.
• Use EPA-approved insect repellents on exposed skin and clothing.
• Perform thorough tick checks on yourself, children, and pets after outdoor activities.
• Remove attached ticks promptly and correctly using fine-tipped tweezers.