Preventing Transfusion-Transmitted Babesiosis

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Parasitology
• Public Health

Background:

• Babesia are tick-borne parasites causing babesiosis, posing a transfusion-transmitted risk, especially in the US where Babesia microti is endemic.
• Asymptomatic carriers can unknowingly transmit Babesia through blood donations, leading to severe illness and high mortality in recipients.
• Rising cases of tick-borne babesiosis and transfusion-transmitted babesiosis (TTB) necessitated interventions to protect the blood supply.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the evolution of the US response to transfusion-transmitted babesiosis.
• To provide insights into the global risk of transfusion-transmitted babesiosis.
• To highlight advancements in diagnostic assays and understanding of babesiosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical data and public health responses to Babesia transmission.
• Analysis of blood donor surveillance and assay development investments.
• Examination of the impact of interventions on blood safety and diagnostic capabilities.

Main Results:

• The US adopted regional blood donor testing to address TTB risks.
• Significant investment in surveillance and assay development has occurred over the past decade.
• Novel serological and molecular assays have been developed, advancing babesiosis research.

Conclusions:

• The US response has improved blood safety and reduced TTB risk.
• Developed diagnostic tools offer potential for broader application in global babesiosis research.
• Further insights into the epidemiology and immunopathogenesis of human babesiosis have been gained.