First SFTS Death Reported in Chungnam... Strengthening Prevention Education

80-Year-Old Man Confirmed Positive on 13th, Passed Away on 22nd

The first fatality from Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) has occurred in Chungnam Province. It is the fifth case nationwide.

According to the provincial authorities on the 24th, an man in his 80s, Mr. A, showed symptoms of fever and muscle pain and visited a medical institution. He was confirmed to have SFTS on the 13th. His condition worsened, and after being transferred to a hospital for treatment, he passed away on the 22nd.

Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome is a Class 3 legally designated infectious disease caused by a bite from a tick infected with the SFTS virus.

It mainly occurs from April to November, when outdoor activities such as farming, gathering forest products, and hiking are active. Elderly residents living in rural areas are considered high-risk groups.

Mr. A was also known to have engaged in outdoor activities such as working in his garden.

The nationwide cumulative fatality rate of SFTS is quite high at 18.7%, but there are no treatments or vaccines available, so it is important to avoid tick bites.

Lee Dong-yoo, Director of the Welfare and Health Bureau of the province, said, "When engaging in outdoor activities, follow the preventive measures for tick-borne infectious diseases, and if symptoms appear, immediately visit a medical institution for treatment." He added, "Since the first fatality has occurred in the province, we will strengthen preventive education for residents."