Caution Advised for Tick- and Rodent-Borne Infectious Diseases in Autumn

Strict Adherence to Preventive Measures Urged,
Including Wearing Long Sleeves and Light-Colored Clothing

Photo by Daejeon City Provided

As of September 17, 2025, Daejeon has confirmed 4 cases of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), 7 cases of Tsutsugamushi disease, and 5 cases of Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome. This trend is also being observed consistently nationwide.

With the arrival of autumn, when outdoor activities such as visiting ancestral graves, hiking, and farming increase, Daejeon City has urged citizens to follow preventive measures against infectious diseases transmitted by ticks and rodents.

The city reported that a man in his 50s residing in Jung District, Daejeon, died from Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) after engaging in farming work earlier this year, emphasizing the need for heightened caution.

The most common infectious diseases in autumn include Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), Tsutsugamushi disease, and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome.

SFTS is transmitted through bites from the Haemaphysalis longicornis tick, and symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues appear within 4 to 15 days after being bitten. There is currently no vaccine, and the fatality rate is relatively high at around 20%.

Photo by Daejeon City Provided

Tsutsugamushi disease is transmitted through bites from larval mites, and the formation of an eschar at the bite site is a characteristic symptom. Patients may experience fever, headache, skin rash, and lymph node swelling. Early antibiotic treatment can lead to a complete cure, making prompt diagnosis and treatment essential.

Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome is transmitted through the excreta, urine, or saliva of rodents, and symptoms include fever and muscle pain, which can progress to heart failure in severe cases. People who spend a lot of time outdoors, such as soldiers and farmers, should seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear.

Tae Jun-eop, Director of Sports and Health at Daejeon City, stated, "During autumn, it is important to make a habit of following preventive measures such as wearing long sleeves and long pants, choosing light-colored clothing, and avoiding sitting on grass. If you experience symptoms such as fever or muscle pain, you should visit a medical institution immediately for examination and treatment."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.