Related Experiment Videos
Human babesiosis in New York State: an epidemiological description of 136 cases
S C Meldrum1, G S Birkhead, D J White
1Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, New York State Department of Health, Albany 12237.
Abstract:
Epidemiological data on 136 cases of human babesiosis reported from laboratories and clinicians in the state of New York from 1982 to 1991 were reviewed. All but two patients, who had traveled to Nantucket Island in Massachusetts, acquired disease in Suffolk County, Long Island. The highest average age-group-specific annual incidence rates occurred among men > or = 80 years of age (7.72 per 100,000) and among women 70-79 years of age (3.61 per 100,000). Seven patients (5%) had previously undergone splenectomy, and 31 (23%) had evidence of concurrent Lyme disease. One hundred three patients (76%) were hospitalized, and seven (5%) died. Although the geographic distribution of this disease has remained constant, the recent introduction of babesiosis in mainland Connecticut and the spread of Lyme disease in New York suggest that the geographic distribution of babesiosis could also spread in New York.
Insights
Human babesiosis cases in New York (1982-1991) were concentrated in Suffolk County, primarily affecting older adults. Concurrent Lyme disease and splenectomy were noted risk factors, with significant hospitalization and mortality rates observed.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne illness caused by protozoan parasites.
- Understanding its epidemiology is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review epidemiological data of human babesiosis cases in New York State from 1982 to 1991.
- To identify geographic distribution, incidence rates, and risk factors.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 136 reported human babesiosis cases.
- Analysis of patient demographics, geographic location, and co-morbidities.
Main Results:
- Most cases (134/136) were acquired in Suffolk County, Long Island.
- Highest incidence rates were in men aged 80+ and women aged 70-79.
- 23% had concurrent Lyme disease; 5% had undergone splenectomy.
- 76% were hospitalized, and 5% died.
Conclusions:
- Babesiosis in New York was geographically concentrated in Suffolk County during this period.
- Older adults and asplenic individuals are at higher risk.
- Potential for geographic spread exists, mirroring Lyme disease expansion.