Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS): The Emerging Tick-Borne Threat
SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome) is a viral infection caused by the SFTSV virus, primarily transmitted through tick bites. Ticks harbor the virus from animal reservoirs, including dogs, cats, goats, sheep, pigs, cattle, and wild animals, and can spread the infection from animals to humans through bites.
SFTS is classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an emerging infectious disease that poses potential future public health emergencies.
Warning Symptoms of SFTS Infection
Patients infected with the SFTS virus typically present with a sudden high fever, petechiae or purpura (purple blood spots or dots on the body), severe fatigue, headache, swollen lymph nodes, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
In severe cases, patients may develop multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), such as acute kidney failure, myocarditis (heart muscle inflammation), or severe hemorrhage.
Urgent Guidelines: When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience high fever, unexplained bleeding spots, or gastrointestinal distress, and have a history of tick bites or close contact with domestic pets/animals within 14 days prior to illness onset, seek medical attention immediately. Be sure to inform your attending physician about any history of tick exposure or animal handling.
Key Prevention and Safety Rules Against SFTS
- Never catch or crush ticks with bare hands under any circumstances!
- Maintain cleanliness around living areas and pet shelters.
- Bathe pets regularly and apply veterinarian-approved tick prevention products.
Source: Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health
Summary: Protecting Your Family and Pets from Tick-Borne Risks
SFTS is a serious emerging tick-borne viral disease capable of causing life-threatening multi-organ failure. Avoiding bare-hand contact with ticks, maintaining pet hygiene, and seeking prompt medical evaluation after suspected tick exposure ensures timely diagnosis and safety.
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