South Korea issues health warnings over rising autumn tick-borne diseases

Health authorities in South Korea are issuing warnings regarding a surge in tick-borne infectious diseases during the autumn harvest and holiday seasons. Data from the Rural Development Administration indicates that 74.3% of tick-borne disease cases over the last three years occurred between September and November.

Key concerns include scrub typhus, which is prevalent in autumn due to increased larval activity, and Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS). SFTS is particularly dangerous as it lacks an effective vaccine or treatment and carries a fatality rate of approximately 20%.

In Gangwon State, where forests cover 81% of the area, officials are urging citizens to take precautions during Chuseok activities such as grave visiting and weeding. Recommended preventive measures include wearing long sleeves, long pants, and gloves to minimize skin exposure, using insect repellents, and avoiding direct contact with grass by using mats.

After outdoor activities, individuals are advised to wash thoroughly and check for bites. If symptoms such as high fever, chills, vomiting, or muscle pain develop within one to two weeks of outdoor exposure, immediate medical attention is required.