TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei City's Department of Health (北市政府衛生局) announced on Monday (March 10) that 204,000 seniors over 65, representing 33%, have received the PCV13 vaccine, while 297,000, or 48%, have been vaccinated with PPV23. With a completion rate of 26% for both vaccines, Taipei leads among the six municipalities.
The department urges seniors who have never been vaccinated against pneumococcal disease to receive PCV13 for initial protection, followed by PPV23 after one year for comprehensive health protection.
The department emphasized that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent invasive pneumococcal diseases. To enhance protection for high-risk groups, the government has expanded the free pneumococcal vaccination program to include high-risk individuals aged 19 to 64.
This age group encompasses those with asplenia, congenital or acquired immunodeficiency, cochlear implants, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, or those who underwent immunosuppressive therapy or radiation for malignant tumors and organ transplants within the past year.
Pneumococcus is a common pathogen causing community-acquired pneumonia, especially dangerous for children under five, seniors over 65, and high-risk groups. Weakened immunity can allow bacteria to invade organs via the respiratory tract or bloodstream, leading to severe conditions such as sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis.
The department advised residents to bring their National Health Insurance card and identification for vaccination. High-risk individuals should consider getting vaccinated at their original healthcare facility or bring supporting documents to assist physicians in evaluating their vaccination needs.
