INCHEON – The city of Incheon today issued a public health advisory, urging residents to strictly adhere to preventive measures against tick bites. The warning comes as an increase in outdoor activities heightens the risk of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), a potentially fatal tick-borne illness.

SFTS, classified as a Class 3 notifiable infectious disease in South Korea, is typically transmitted between April and November. It is caused by the SFTS virus, carried by infected hard ticks, primarily Haemaphysalis longicornis, which are prevalent across Korea. After a symptom-free incubation period of 5 to 14 days, individuals bitten by an infected tick may develop a range of symptoms.

The primary manifestations of SFTS include high fever, often accompanied by severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. As the disease progresses, it can lead to a dangerous decrease in platelet and white blood cell counts. In severe cases, SFTS can result in multiple organ failure, hemorrhage, and can be fatal. Early detection and prompt medical treatment are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

The first confirmed case of SFTS in South Korea this year was reported on April 15, involving an 80-year-old woman in Namwon, North Jeolla Province, who contracted the disease while engaged in agricultural work. This case underscores the ongoing threat posed by tick-borne illnesses in rural and outdoor settings.

Since its designation as a notifiable infectious disease in 2013, South Korea has recorded a cumulative total of 2,065 SFTS cases through 2024, with 381 fatalities, resulting in an average fatality rate of approximately 18.5 percent. This high fatality rate, coupled with the absence of a specific vaccine or antiviral treatment, emphasizes the importance of prevention.

To mitigate the risk of SFTS, the Incheon metropolitan government strongly advises residents to adopt the following preventive measures when engaging in outdoor activities:

Minimize Skin Exposure: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and socks. Tuck trousers into socks or boots to create a barrier against ticks.
Use Tick Repellents: Apply an insect repellent containing DEET or other approved active ingredients to exposed skin and clothing.
Stay on Designated Paths: Avoid walking through dense vegetation, tall grass, or wooded areas where ticks are more likely to be present.
Post-Activity Check: After returning indoors, thoroughly inspect your body, clothing, and any accompanying pets for ticks. Take a soapy shower and wash clothes to remove any unseen ticks.
Proper Tick Removal: If a tick is found attached, remove it gently with fine-tipped tweezers by grasping it close to the skin. Disinfect the bite area and wash your hands thoroughly. Avoid crushing or twisting the tick during removal.
"Preventing tick bites is paramount to safeguarding against tick-borne infectious diseases," stated Shin Byung-chul, Director-General of Incheon's Public Health and Welfare Bureau. "We urge all citizens to diligently follow these prevention guidelines to protect themselves and their families."

SFTS cases tend to peak during the warmer months, making heightened vigilance necessary for those spending time outdoors. If you experience symptoms such as high fever or gastrointestinal issues after outdoor activities, seek immediate medical attention and inform your doctor about potential tick exposure.