A method for continuous in vitro propagation of Babesia microti and microti-like species is disclosed. The method comprises incubating B. microti in culture medium comprising host erythrocytes in the presence of a source of complement and a source of anti-B. microti IgM antibody. In one embodiment, the source of anti-B. microti IgM antibody is substantially free of IgG antibody. In one embodiment, the source of complement is a cell or cell line that secretes complement.
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