Scrub Typhus Active in Taitung's Forests and Trails; 18 Cases Confirmed This Year

(Central News Agency reporter Lu Taicheng, Taitung County, 3rd) Taitung's natural forests and trails are active environments for chiggers, and summer is a peak season. As of the end of May this year, 18 confirmed cases of scrub typhus have been reported. The Taitung County Health Bureau urges the public to beware of bites when contacting grass.

The Disease Control Section of the Taitung County Health Bureau issued a press release today stating that with rising temperatures, mosquitoes and insects are becoming active. According to surveillance data from the Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, as of May 31, Taitung County has accumulated 18 confirmed cases of scrub typhus.

Scrub typhus cases occur year-round in Taiwan, with the epidemic beginning to rise in April and peaking in June and July. Taitung County has abundant natural forests and trail environments, which are the most active areas for chiggers. The public must remain vigilant.

The Taitung County Health Bureau stated that scrub typhus is infected by the bite of chigger mite larvae carrying "Orientia tsutsugamushi." Chigger mites prefer to stay on the tips of grass blades. When people pass through and come into contact with grass, the chigger mites will attach and bite.

The Health Bureau stated that typical symptoms and warning signs of scrub typhus include persistent high fever, sudden chills, headache, and fever. Second, an eschar: a painless black ulcer usually appears at the bite site. Third, lymphadenopathy: systemic or local lymph node inflammation. Fourth, skin rash: about one week after the onset of fever, a red macular rash may appear on the trunk and spread to the limbs.

The Health Bureau reminded that Taitung is an endemic area for scrub typhus. Before engaging in outdoor activities, mountain climbing, or land clearing and farming, personal protection must be taken. If symptoms suggestive of scrub typhus appear, seek medical attention as soon as possible and proactively inform the doctor of any history of grass contact to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. (Editor: Li Xizhang) 1150603