Problems in the study and prophylaxis of mixed infections transmitted by ixodid ticks.

The spread of mixed infections with natural focality transmitted by ixodid ticks is a normal phenomenon attributable to trends in the relationships of different pathogens in the vector organism and ecosystem as a whole. Any disease developing as a result of tick bite should be regarded as a potentially mixed infection. Clinically, tick-borne mixed infections proceed more severely than the corresponding diseases caused by a single agent. The residual course of the disease may sometimes be accounted for by the persistence of two or even several pathogens. This implies the necessity of a comprehensive approach to the study, diagnosis, treatment, management and prophylaxis of infections belonging to this group.