Thrombocytopenia syndrome (also known as Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, SFTS) is a viral infection characterized by sudden fever, digestive issues, and significantly low platelet and white blood cell counts. It is caused by the SFTS virus and primarily affects people in East Asian countries, transmitted by ticks.
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SFTS was first identified in 2009 in rural areas of China, following a cluster of patients presenting with unexplained fever and low platelet counts. Researchers subsequently isolated the causative agent, the SFTS virus. This discovery helped to characterize a previously unknown infectious disease prevalent in certain East Asian regions.
The primary mode of transmission for SFTS is through the bite of infected ticks, particularly the *Haemaphysalis longicornis* species. While rare, human-to-human transmission can occur through direct contact with blood or other body fluids from an acutely ill patient, especially in healthcare settings or during post-mortem examination.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
2 countries with reported activity. Updated from real-time surveillance data.
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The number of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) cases reported in Japan has steadily increased in recent years, and the pathogen's geographic range has expanded. A concurrent increase in pet infections was also observed.
Source: BEACON - View Full Report
SFTSV YL-1 causes lethal disease in C57BL/6J mice with transient suppression of type I interferon (IFN) We first established a lethal challenge model for SFTSV for the evaluation of candidate vaccines. SFTSV causes little-to-no disease in wild-type (WT) mice, although mice deficient in type I IFN r... Source: Nature - Read Full Article
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View WHO Resources →Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-18
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