A rash may develop but is not a common feature. Rare complications may occur in children under the age of 10. Nervous system infection, bleeding and involvement of abdominal organs has been reported. Lab tests are not generally helpful or widely available during the clinical course of illness. No specific treatment exists for CTF and therapy is primarily supportive.
Infection generally confers lifelong immunity.
Most Babesia infections have occurred in the summer months on islands offshore the northeastern United States. It has also been reported in the southeast, northern midwest and west coast states. Babesiosis occurs primarily in the elderly or in those with underlying medical problems. Symptoms of Babesiosis begin gradually with anorexia and fatigue followed by fever, sweats and muscle aches. Most patients do not recall tick bite and symptoms begin about one week after exposure.