Following last week’s post on severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) in Japan, reports have emerged of the tick-borne infection causing several deaths among older residents in Xinyang, Henan Province (known as a ‘high incidence area’). SFTS peak season occurs during times of high tick activity, from April to October. 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 China
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.