TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei's Department of Health (台北市衛生局) announced Tuesday (Feb. 4) that government-funded flu vaccines are nearly depleted, although self-paid vaccines remain available.
The demand surged after Barbie Hsu (徐熙媛), a well-known celebrity, died from pneumonia complications related to the flu.
The department reported that as of 6 p.m. Tuesday, fewer than 1,000 doses were left, with most already reserved and expected to be administered soon. However, officials advise that self-paid flu vaccines are still accessible and urge residents to consult medical institutions for availability.
The department reassured the public that 43,000 doses of government-funded antiviral medication are available, which should meet the needs of the current flu season.
CDC noted that the country has achieved a certain level of herd immunity based on current vaccination rates and infection data. They emphasized that the public should not panic.
