Objective To analyze the epidemiological features and risk factors for severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) in Yantai, China and to provide a basis for the prevention and control of SFTS in Yantai and even the rest of China. Methods Analyzed the epidemiological features of SFTS and thirty SFTS cases and healthy controls (n＝90) were selected from Yantai for investigation of related factors, and statistical analysis was performed by chi?square rest. Results A total of 30 SFTS cases were collected from Yantai during 2011, and the farmers were the main group. The dog feeding way showed significant difference between cases and controls; the proportion of individuals who worked in the hillside field was significantly higher in cases than in controls. Among the 120 respondents, only 7 took certain forms of protective measures. Occupation, working and living conditions, and contact with animals were possible risk factors for this disease. Conclusion The working environment, occupation, and contact with animals should be considered as a reference in the diagnosis of SFTS cases, and the residents’ awareness of occupational protection should be strengthened.