Protect Yourself from Ticks When Hiking

In Jeonnam Province, two people died this year of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), which is a tick-borne infectious disease. According to the Jeollanam-do Institute of Health and Environment, two women in their 80s died of SFTS, one in Haenam in April and the other in Suncheon in June.

Every year, numerous SFTS patients are reported nationwide. In spite of a high fatality rate (18.7%), there are no preventive vaccines or cures available. In the first half of this year, there have been 14 SFTS patients across the country, two of which have died.

Ticks live in wooded and grassy areas. During outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, and farming, wear pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin from ticks. After outdoor activities, take a shower and wash your clothes.

First article translated by Koo Yesol. Other articles translated by Kim Sukang