TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan reported its first locally-transmitted omicron subvariant XBB, and BF.7 cases on Monday (Oct. 31), a Taiwanese man in his 40s became the first recorded XBB case.
According to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC), the victim had previously received 3 vaccine shots and tested positive for COVID on Aug. 30. However, he began displaying symptoms of fever, coughs, and a runny nose on Oct. 15.
Also, a Taiwanese woman in her 60s became the first domestic BF.7 case on Monday. She had also received 3 vaccine shots, and her infection was confirmed on Oct. 19. Both infected patients had no recent travel history abroad.
At present, the XBB subvariant has already been recorded in 35 countries. Still, health officials are hopeful that the number of Taiwan's COVID cases may decrease near the end of the year.
In related news, the CECC is currently contemplating adjusting quarantine periods for infected cases so that they can cast their ballots on the Nov. 26 election day. A final decision is expected to be announced after health authorities convene on Nov. 7.
