A2 Refereed review article in a scientific journal

Tick‐Borne Viruses in Finland: Public Health Risks, Interventions and Research Insights




AuthorsAlale, Theophilus Yaw; Klemola, Tero; Sormunen, Jani J.; Harvala, Heli; Kakkola, Laura; Tikkala, Jessica; Vesterinen, Eero J.

PublisherWiley

Publication year2025

Journal: Veterinary Medicine and Science

Article numbere70638

Volume11

Issue6

ISSN2053-1095

eISSN2053-1095

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.70638

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingOpen Access

Publication channel's open availability Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.70638

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/500490111


Abstract

Ticks are obligate haematophagous arthropods that serve as vectors for diverse pathogens, including viruses, bacteria and protozoa. In Finland, the two primary tick species, Ixodes ricinus (castor bean tick) and Ixodes persulcatus (taiga tick), have been identified in the transmission of tick-borne viruses (TBV), notably tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). This article reviews the epidemiology, public health interventions and research on ticks and TBVs in Finland over the past six decades (1960-2020), highlighting the marked increase in tick populations and the incidence of tick-borne diseases in humans. Factors contributing to these trends include climate change, shifts in land use and alterations in ecosystem dynamics, which have expanded the geographical range and seasonal activity of ticks. This evolving epidemiological landscape poses significant public health challenges, necessitating effective monitoring and intervention strategies. Current research efforts focusing on understanding the dynamics of tick populations, the distribution of TBVs, and the effectiveness of TBEV vaccination and general prevention measures are crucial for mitigating risks associated with tick-borne viral diseases in Finland.


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Funding information in the publication
The authors received no specific funding for this work.


Last updated on 2025-07-10 at 11:17