Babesiosis

What is it?

Piroplasmosis, or babesiosis, is a parasitic blood disease caused by microorganisms called Babesia, which destroy red blood cells. It mainly affects dogs and cattle in Tunisia, especially during hot periods conducive to ticks. This disease can progress quickly and requires rapid veterinary attention.

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Commonly observed signs

These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors

The disease is caused by single-celled parasites of the genus Babesia, which infect and destroy the animal's red blood cells. Different species of Babesia exist, some more dangerous depending on the animal species affected. These parasites multiply in the blood, causing progressive anemia.

Animals living in tick-infested areas or without regular anti-parasitic protection are at greater risk. Young animals, weakened or stressed individuals, as well as those living in rural areas or pastures are particularly at risk. Hot and humid seasons favor the proliferation of ticks and therefore disease.

Transmission

Transmission occurs mainly through the bite of infected ticks which inject the parasite into the animal's bloodstream. It can also occur, more rarely, by blood transfusion or from the mother to her young before birth. The disease cannot be transmitted directly from one animal to another without passing through a tick.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

Treatment

The veterinarian first confirms the disease. The animal is examined and a blood test is usually performed, looking for the parasite inside the red blood cells.

Treatment relies on antiparasitic drugs targeting Babesia (a group of antiprotozoal agents). The choice depends on the animal species and the type of parasite involved.

Supportive care is often essential. It may include an intravenous fluid drip to rehydrate, monitoring of fever and treatment of associated symptoms. In cases of severe anaemia, a blood transfusion may be needed, in clinic.

Seriously affected animals are sometimes hospitalised so they can be closely monitored. The veterinarian then follows progress with repeat blood tests.

The veterinarian also advises removing ticks and protecting the animal against new tick bites. Never give medication on your own initiative: some products are dangerous depending on the species.

For wild animals, care is provided by a veterinarian or a wildlife rehabilitation centre.

Prevention

Possible complications

Severe anaemia caused by the destruction of red blood cells, sometimes fatal if not treated.

Jaundice (icterus), linked to the destruction of red blood cells and to liver overload.

Kidney involvement that can progress to renal failure.

Clotting disorders, breathing difficulties or multiple organ failure in severe forms.

Nervous system complications are possible in some cases.

In cows, the disease can cause marked loss of body condition, a drop in milk yield and abortions.

Some animals that recover remain carriers of the parasite and can relapse, particularly under stress or when weakened.

When to see a veterinarian

References

MSD Veterinary Manual

ESCCAP — European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites

Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 05 November 2026