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Busan Metropolitan City Urges Residents to Follow Preventive Measures Against Tick Bites During Outdoor Activities

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Busan Metropolitan City announced that it is urging residents to exercise extra caution to prevent Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) as outdoor activities such as spring farming, hiking, and walking increase.

SFTS is a disease caused by infection with the SFTS virus and is classified as a Class 3 nationally notifiable infectious disease. Since the first domestic case was reported in 2013, cases have continued to occur annually. This year (2026), the first confirmed patient was reported in Ulsan Metropolitan City in April.

Over the past five years (2021–2025), Busan recorded a total of 24 cases. By month, one case each occurred in April, May, July, and November; four cases each in June and August; two cases in September; and ten cases in October. As cases mainly occur between April and November, residents are advised to remain particularly vigilant during this period.

SFTS is transmitted through bites from infected ticks, with an incubation period of approximately 5 to 14 days. Symptoms include high fever above 38 degrees Celsius, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

In severe cases, patients may experience thrombocytopenia and leukopenia, which can progress to multiple organ failure and death due to hemorrhagic tendencies. Older adults in particular are at higher risk of developing severe symptoms, making prompt medical diagnosis and treatment essential.

People at especially high risk include older adults, agricultural and forestry workers, and citizens who frequently engage in outdoor activities such as hiking. The cumulative fatality rate in Korea from 2013 to 2025 was 18 percent, which is higher than that of many other infectious diseases, requiring heightened attention.

The most important way to prevent SFTS is to avoid tick bites and follow preventive guidelines during outdoor activities.

Residents are advised to minimize skin exposure by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and high socks during outdoor activities, and to avoid placing clothes on grass or lying directly on grassy areas.

After outdoor activities, it is important to shower immediately, check the body carefully for attached ticks, and wash work clothes and worn garments right away.

In addition, if symptoms such as fever or gastrointestinal issues develop within two weeks after a tick bite, individuals should immediately visit a medical institution, inform medical staff about their outdoor activity history, and receive medical treatment.

Cho Gyu-yul, Director General of the Citizens’ Health Bureau, stated, “As there are currently no specific treatments or vaccines for Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), following preventive measures to avoid tick bites is extremely important,” adding, “We ask residents to minimize skin exposure during outdoor activities and maintain thorough personal hygiene by strictly observing prevention guidelines.”