Because this immunosuppressive effect continues for months after infection and because it limits the ability to produce antibodies against co-infections, the issue is critical for patients who may be infected with many other tick-borne microbes, including Babesia, Anaplasma, Erlichia and Tularemia. Without a functioning CP, it is not likely that the immune system can mount an effective response against these organisms [42,43]. The gene discussed is CP; the disease is infection.