South Korea has reported its first case this year of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome, or SFTS. It is a tick-borne disease with a high fatality rate and no preventive vaccine or specific treatment.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said the patient is a woman in her 80s from Namwon, North Jeolla Province. She was bitten by a tick while working on a farm and later showed symptoms like fever, vomiting, tiredness, and loss of appetite. She tested positive for SFTS.

SFTS usually spreads through tick bites, but it can also be passed from person to person through contact with infected blood. Most cases happen from April to November. Symptoms include high fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and typically appear within two weeks. In severe cases, the illness can cause a drop in white blood cells and platelets, which can lead to death.

Since 2013, South Korea has reported 2,065 cases and 381 deaths, with a fatality rate of 18.5%.

The agency advises people to wear long sleeves and pants outdoors and to use insect repellent. “Prevention is key,” officials said.

J.K. Park
Staff Reporter
junior/1747032430/1613367801