Japan SFTS Infections Reach Record 135, Health Ministry Issues Warning

Japan has reported 135 cases of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome so far this year, surpassing the previous annual record of 134 set in 2023, according to data released on 19 August by the National Institute of Health and Crisis Management. SFTS is transmitted by hard ticks and carries an estimated case-fatality rate of around 30 percent. Although infections were once concentrated in western prefectures, recent cases have also been detected in Kanagawa and Hokkaido, underscoring a broader geographic spread. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare is urging residents to wear long-sleeved clothing, use insect repellent and seek prompt medical attention if they develop fever, gastrointestinal symptoms or bleeding after a tick bite. Authorities also advise veterinarians and pet owners to take precautions, citing documented transmission from domestic animals.