Page 59 - Medical Parasitology_ A Textbook ( PDFDrive )

Babesia 51

Treatment

Babesia microti infection is often mild and self-limiting. Most of the patients
recover with only symptomatic care and do not require treatment. In acute cases,
chemotherapy is required for at least 7–10 days. Atovaquone (750 mg orally twice
a day) in combination with azithromycin (total dose in the range of 500–1000 mg
orally on day 1; on subsequent days, a total daily dose in the range of 250–1000 mg)
is effective. Alternatively, combination of clindamycin with quinine may be given.
In fulminant cases, exchange transfusion is recommended.

Prevention and Control

1. Protective clothing when going into tick infested areas
2. Tick repellents
3. Individuals with history of symptomatic babesiosis should be prevented from
donating blood