SFTS stands for Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome. It is a tick-borne viral disease caused by the SFTS virus (SFTSV), which belongs to the Phlebovirus genus in the Bunyaviridae family. SFTS was first discovered in China in 2009 and has since been reported in various regions of Asia, including South Korea and Japan.
The main symptoms of SFTS include high fever, severe thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), leukopenia (decreased white blood cell count), and multiple organ dysfunction such as hepatic and renal impairment. Other symptoms may include gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, as well as respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath. SFTS can progress rapidly and has a high fatality rate, ranging from 6% to 30%.
Transmission of the SFTS virus occurs through the bite of infected ticks, primarily from the genera Haemaphysalis longicornis. There have also been a few reports of human-to-human transmission through direct contact with blood or other body fluids. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for SFTS, and supportive care remains the primary approach.
Preventive measures to reduce the risk of SFTS include avoiding exposure to tick-infested areas, wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents, conducting thorough tick checks, and promptly removing ticks if found attached to the body. Improved understanding of SFTS and ongoing research efforts aim to develop effective interventions, diagnostic tools, and preventive measures to control the spread of this emerging infectious disease.
