Babesia is a genus of protozoan parasites that infect red blood cells in various mammals, including humans. These parasites are primarily transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, particularly the Ixodes species. Babesia infections can lead to a disease known as babesiosis, which can cause symptoms like fever, chills, and fatigue. The life cycle of Babesia involves both a mammalian host and a tick vector. Once inside the host, the parasites multiply within red blood cells, leading to their destruction. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, and treatment often includes specific antibiotics to eliminate the infection.