Precautions Urged for Outdoor Activities in Spring
The Hongseong County Public Health Center in South Chungcheong Province urged residents to take precautions against tick-borne infectious diseases after the first case of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) this year was reported in North Jeolla Province on April 18.
The activity period of Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks, which transmit SFTS, has been starting earlier, with the first cases each year over the past three years occurring in April. The tick population has also surged, requiring heightened caution during outdoor activities.
In particular, since there are currently no vaccines or treatments for SFTS, strictly adhering to preventive measures?such as minimizing contact with ticks?is the best method of protection.
To prevent tick-borne infectious diseases, it is important to minimize skin exposure by wearing long clothing during farming or outdoor activities, and to separate everyday clothes from work clothes. Using tick repellents is also recommended.
After outdoor activities, taking a shower immediately and thoroughly shaking out and washing worn clothes can help prevent infection.
An official from the county health center stated, "If you find a tick attached to your body, it is difficult to remove the mouthparts yourself," and added, "Due to the risk of secondary infection, you should visit a medical institution for safe removal and treatment."
Meanwhile, Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) occurs after being bitten by a tick carrying the virus, following an incubation period of 5 to 14 days. It is characterized by high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea?gastrointestinal symptoms?along with decreased white blood cell and platelet counts. With a fatality rate of 18.5%, it is referred to as the 'killer tick' disease.
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