Seven Medical Staff Infected with SFTS Virus in South Korea
In a shocking turn of events, seven medical staff in South Korea have been confirmed to have contracted the SFTS virus, a condition previously reported only in patients with severe acute thrombocytopenia syndrome.
Ground Zero: Cheongju’s Intensive Care Unit
A patient with severe SFTS symptoms, identified as Mr. A (age 69), was admitted to an intensive care unit in Cheongju last month. Despite CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) efforts, the patient deteriorated rapidly and passed away on the 11th of the month.
The patient had initially exhibited symptoms like fever and later complications including bleeding and a significant reduction in platelet count. Nine medical personnel involved in CPR and treating the patient subsequently showed symptoms of fever, headache, muscle pain, and diarrhea between the 17th and 20th of last month.
Secondary Infections and Exposure
Epidemiological surveys confirmed that these medical staff were exposed to the patient’s blood and body fluids during critical care procedures such as CPR and sputum suction. Seven of the nine were diagnosed positive for the SFTS virus.
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) is now tracking these cases, ensuring to monitor both directly and indirectly exposed staff for the virus’ maximum incubation period of 14 days.
Background on SFTS
SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome) is an infectious disease primarily carried by ticks. Symptoms include high fever, thrombocytopenia, and organ failure. Since its detection in 2014, South Korea has documented 35 severe cases, leading to substantial public health concerns because of an 18.5% fatality rate. Currently, no treatment or vaccine is available for SFTS.
Prevention and Protection
The KCDC advises taking comprehensive precautions outdoors to limit tick bites, including wearing long clothing, hats, and socks, as well as using tick repellents. Dr. Ji Young-mi from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency emphasizes the necessity of wearing personal protective equipment during care of SFTS patients to prevent medical staff infections.
Monitoring and Next Steps
The KCDC continues to track affected individuals and their contacts for signs of infection, aiming to curtail further spread. As of now, these seven infected medical staff have reportedly been treated and are no longer contagious.
The recent outbreak serves as a reminder of the risks healthcare workers face when dealing with highly infectious diseases, highlighting the urgency of stringent protective measures, especially during high-risk procedures.
