A robust T‐cell response mounted in immunocompetent hosts controls parasite growth during both the acute and chronic phases of infection through the production of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ).1 CD8 T cells have long been known to elicit this critical protective function.2, 3 Once infected, the parasite persists within cysts in the brain and muscle tissue of the host for its entire life. The gene discussed is CD8A; the disease is infection.