Hantavirus in South Korea.
South Korea reports approximately 300–600 confirmed Hantaan virus HFRS cases annually, concentrated in Gyeonggi, Gangwon, and Chungcheong provinces.
South Korea reports approximately 300–600 confirmed Hantaan virus HFRS cases annually, concentrated in Gyeonggi, Gangwon, and Chungcheong provinces. The disease — called Korean hemorrhagic fever — has been formally tracked since the Korean War and gave its name to the prototype virus species. Military training installations along the DMZ remain notable foci. South Korea uses an inactivated Hantaan vaccine in high-risk military and rural populations.
Active and recent clusters
- South Korea · Gyeonggi / Gangwon — 400 cases, 12 deaths (CFR 3%) · Annual pattern; KDCA infectious disease portal. South Korea reports approximately 300–600 confirmed HFRS cases annually, concentrated in Gyeonggi, Gangwon, and Chungcheong provinces. The disease (Korean hemorrhagic fever) gave its name to the prototype Hantaan virus. KDCA uses inactivated Hantaan vaccine in high-risk military and rural populations.
Authoritative sources
Frequently asked
Is hantavirus a problem in South Korea?
Yes. South Korea is part of the Asia hantavirus surveillance footprint, with the Hantaan strain causing HFRS and case fatality typically 2–5%.
What rodent carries hantavirus in South Korea?
Striped field mouse (Apodemus agrarius), particularly along the DMZ corridor.
Who tracks hantavirus cases in South Korea?
Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA); WHO WPRO.
Related
Disclaimer. Country surveillance figures are floor estimates and reflect what national authorities publish. Always confirm with the cited sources.