02/09/2025
Watch out for TiCKS!
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), a potentially fatal tick-borne illness, is spreading across Japan, prompting health authorities to issue safety warnings. The infection can cause high fever above 38°C, severe abdominal pain, and diarrhea, and carries a case-fatality rate of 10% to 30%.
Practical advice for preventing infection:
Avoid handling wild or stray animals.
Use insect repellents on all exposed skin during outdoor activities.
Wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed shoes in grassy or wooded areas.
Check yourself and pets for ticks after being outdoors.
Seek prompt medical attention if bitten by a tick or if fever, stomach pain, or diarrhea develops.
Experts warn that urban wildlife, including raccoons, Taiwan squirrels, and even household pets, can carry ticks, increasing the risk of exposure. In May, a veterinarian in Mie Prefecture contracted SFTS from a cat and later died, highlighting the importance of caution.
With the virus still not fully understood, specialists emphasize that prevention through awareness and protective measures is the best way to stay safe.
