Definition

A disease caused by a type of protozoan that infects red blood cells, usually spread by ticks, leading to symptoms like fever and fatigue.

Example

Babesiosis is more common in areas where the northern deer tick is found.

Conversation

Did you hear about that recent case of babesiosis in our area?

Yeah, I read about it online; it's pretty concerning.

I didn't realize it was transmitted by ticks, though.

Me neither! We should be careful when hiking this summer.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Babesiosis is formed from 'Babesia' (a genus of protozoan parasites named after the Romanian scientist Victor Babeș) and '-osis' (a suffix used in medical terminology to denote a condition or disease). The word refers to a disease caused by the Babesia parasites, typically transmitted by ticks.

Memory Tip

Think of 'Babesia' as the name of the parasite causing the disease, and '-osis' indicating a condition. This helps you remember that babesiosis is a condition caused by the Babesia parasite.

Visually Confused Words