thailand Reports Cluster of Severe Fever Syndrome with Thrombocytopenia, Linked to Tick-Borne Virus
Table of Contents
A concerning outbreak of severe fever syndrome with thrombocytopenia (SFTS) is emerging in Thailand, with health officials reporting recent cases linked to tick exposure and domestic animals. The findings, released by the WHO South-East Asia Region, highlight the growing threat of this potentially fatal disease and underscore the importance of preventative measures.
SEO Meta Description: New cases of SFTS, a tick-borne illness, are being reported in Thailand. Learn about the symptoms, risks, and preventative measures.
Two laboratory-confirmed cases of SFTS were identified in June 2025 in the Wang Phet district of Phetchabun province. Both patients resided in the same neighborhood and shared a common risk factor: close contact with a pet dog. A significant number of dog ticks were discovered around their homes, prompting further inquiry.
Tick samples Test Positive for SFTS Virus
Environmental analysis revealed the presence of the SFTS virus in 16 tick samples collected from canine hosts (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). Specifically, three tick samples originated from the first patient’s home and dog, while 13 were collected from the dog of the second patient. This strong correlation suggests a clear transmission pathway from ticks to dogs, and subsequently, to humans.
“These findings are particularly alarming as they demonstrate the virus’s ability to establish itself within the local canine population,” a senior official stated.
Expanding Geographic Range of SFTS in Thailand
This recent cluster isn’t an isolated incident. the first confirmed case of SFTS in Thailand was reported in 2019 in Nakhon Pathom province, where the patient also owned dogs and cats and had a history of tick exposure. To better understand the scope of the issue, a retrospective study examined RNA samples from 712 patients treated in Bangkok and neighboring provinces between 2018 and 2021.
The study uncovered three additional cases of SFTS: two in Bangkok (in 2019 and 2020) and one in Chachoengsao province (in 2020). This data indicates that the virus is not confined to a single region and is actively circulating within the country.
Public Health Response and Ongoing Monitoring
The WHO is closely monitoring the situation in Thailand and providing support to local health authorities. The reporting period for these findings spanned from Sept. 22 to Oct. 5, 2025, as detailed in the 20th edition of the WHO South-East Asia Region Epidemiological Bulletin.
The emergence of SFTS in thailand underscores the need for increased public awareness regarding tick-borne diseases and the importance of preventative measures, such as regular tick checks on pets and personal protective measures when venturing into tick-prone areas. Further research is crucial to fully understand the dynamics of SFTS transmission and develop effective control strategies.
Why is this happening? The outbreak is linked to the SFTS virus, transmitted by ticks, particularly Rhipicephalus sanguineus (dog ticks). The virus has established itself within the local canine population, creating a pathway for transmission to humans through close contact with infected dogs.
**Who is affected?
