More ticks carrying babesiosis parasite, raising risk of serious illness

[NutmegYankee]

Before last month, 73-year-old Albert Patalano had never heard of babesiosis.

Now, he’s eager to let others know about this dangerous tick-borne illness — not as common as Lyme disease, but potentially far more serious.

“People should be aware,” the Waterford resident said Friday, now well on his way to full recovery after a near-fatal bout with the infection that began in mid-July.

Randall Nelson, chief epidemiologist for the state Department of Public Health, noted that while the number of babesiosis cases statewide has fluctuated from year to year, the decadelong trend shows an increase.

http://www.theday.com/local/20150828/more-ticks-carrying-babesiosis-parasite-raising-risk-of-serious-illness--