Compared to the same period last year there’s been a slight increase in cases of severe fever thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), however an article posted in ProMED notes that 2021 was in fact a record year for SFTS. There has also been a geographic expansion of vector (tick) activity from western regions into two eastern prefectures - Aichi and Shizuoka. Read more
Advice for travellers
SFTS causes symptoms including high fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, blood abnormalities and multiple organ failure. There is no effective vaccine and deaths rates among those infected can be as high as 30 percent. Read more about SFTS in Japan
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.