As autumn deepens, cases of scrub typhus, a tick-borne infectious disease, are surging.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) on Wednesday, 312 cases of scrub typhus were reported from October 24 to 30, the 44th week of this year. This represents a significant increase of over 90 cases compared to the previous week, which recorded 221 cases.
Scrub typhus is a disease transmitted by the bite of larvae from the Trombiculid tick, which carries the Orientia tsutsugamushi bacteria.
These mites become more prevalent as temperatures drop below 64.4°F (18°C), reaching peak activity between 50°F and 59°F (10-15°C). Their numbers decline again when temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C).
As a result, mite populations typically start increasing from late September to early October (weeks 40 to 42), leading to a sharp rise in human infections from mid-October through mid-November (weeks 43 to 47).
Scrub typhus can incubate for up to 10 days. Symptoms include headaches, fever, chills, cough, and muscle aches. A distinctive black scab forms at the site of the mite bite. While potentially serious, the disease has a relatively low mortality rate of 0.1% to 0.3%.
Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics usually leads to a swift recovery. However, some patients may mistake the initial symptoms for a common cold, delaying crucial medical intervention.
Given these risks, health officials urge anyone experiencing these symptoms during the fall months to seek immediate medical attention for proper diagnosis.
KDCA Director Ji Young Mi stressed the importance of early detection, stating, “Scrub typhus can be effectively treated with antibiotics if caught early. If you notice any tick bites after spending time outdoors and develop symptoms such as fever or rash within 10 days, it’s crucial to seek medical care promptly.”
