Flu case surge prompts vaccination plea from physicians

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Amid the cooling weather, physicians in Taipei are strongly advising the public to get vaccinated against the flu, as clinics and hospitals are experiencing an influx of patients due to a spike in cold and flu cases.

The healthcare sector itself is not immune to this wave. Dr. Chang Yi-Hao, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, shared his own experience of falling ill with gastroenteritis in late October, which led to two days of fever. He noted that the virus has been unusually aggressive over the past two to three months.

Consequently, Dr. Chang is urging particularly vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, individuals with chronic diseases, and young children with weaker immune systems, to get either the publicly-funded or private influenza vaccine. He emphasized the adage "prevention is better than cure."

The COVID-19 pandemic has normalized the wearing of face masks, which has been an effective measure against respiratory viruses. However, with the easing of restrictions, there has been an observed increase in flu and other respiratory virus infections.

Healthcare professionals are emphasizing the importance of vaccination, especially for those with lower resistance to diseases, as a critical step in protecting their health.