Maija Lamppu’s Dissertation 12.3.2026

Maija Lamppu’s doctoral dissertation at the University of Turku examines ticks in Finland, their distribution, the pathogens they carry, and long-term changes in human exposure to Borrelia bacteria, the main cause of Lyme borreliosis. The research shows that although ticks are now found further north and encounters with them have increased, long-term antibodies against Borrelia in the Finnish population decreased significantly between 1966 and 2017.

The study mapped the distribution of the two main tick species in Finland (Ixodes ricinus and Ixodes persulcatus) and found Borrelia bacteria in about 17% of ticks, along with some rare pathogens. However, population studies revealed a strong decline in Borrelia IgG antibodies over 50 years, suggesting reduced cumulative exposure.

Possible reasons include earlier antibiotic treatment of infections, urbanization reducing exposure to ticks, and increased public awareness leading to preventive actions such as tick checks and quick removal of ticks. The research highlights the importance of monitoring ticks and improving public awareness to manage tick-borne diseases.

More information:

https://www.utu.fi/fi/ajankohtaista/tapahtumat/vaitos-biologia-fm-maija-lamppu

https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/509007185?lang=fi_FI