Introduction Most people associate tick bites with Lyme disease. But ticks can carry and transmit multiple pathogens, sometimes at the same time, leading to what’s known as tick-borne co-infections. These infections can complicate diagnosis, delay treatment, and increase the severity of symptoms. In this article, we’ll explore the most common tick-borne co-infections, how they’re transmitted, symptoms to watch for, testing, treatment options, and how to protect yourself. What Are Tick-Borne Co-Infections? A co-infection occurs when a tick transmits more than one disease-causing pathogen in a single bite. The most common tick species responsible for co-infections in the U.S. is the…
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Introduction Babesiosis is a potentially serious parasitic infection transmitted primarily by ticks. Although less well-known compared to other vector-borne diseases like Lyme disease, babesiosis can pose significant health risks, particularly in areas where the disease is endemic. Understanding babesiosis, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, risks, and management is important for effective prevention and treatment. This article provides a comprehensive overview of babesiosis, shedding light on this complex disease and offering guidance on how to combat it. What is Babesiosis? Babesiosis is an infection caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia. These parasites infect red blood cells, leading to symptoms…