Longitudinal study of Lyme borreliosis in a high risk population in Switzerland.

Orienteers from all parts of Switzerland (n = 416) were included in a longitudinal study for Lyme borreliosis. In spring 1986, the seroprevalence was 28.1%. At the beginning of the study, 84.3% of orienteers reported a history of tick bite, and 3.8% reported a past history of Lyme borreliosis. During the first (spring 1986-autumn 1986), second (autumn 1986-spring 1987) and third (spring 1987-autumn 1987) period, rates of seroconversion were 0.6%, 2.7% and 2.1% respectively. During the first and second period, clinical incidence were 1.0% and 0.25% respectively. No active Lyme borreliosis was detected during the third period. Among orienteers who seroconverted during the study (n = 16), only two developed clinical symptoms. Hence, Borrelia burgdorferi infection is often asymptomatic.