TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Health officials have issued a timely warning as Taiwan enters the spring festival season amid warming weather conditions. The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 疾管署) announced on Thursday (March 27) that the island has recorded nine cases of scrub typhus and 39 imported dengue fever cases since January, with most dengue infections originating from travelers returning from Southeast Asian countries. The announcement comes as millions prepare for outdoor cemetery visits during the upcoming Tomb-sweeping holiday, when risk of exposure to disease-carrying insects increases significantly.
Health authorities have emphasized the importance of preventive actions as insect-borne disease cases show concerning patterns. According to CDC statistics released through Monday, the 39 imported dengue fever cases match last year's count of 38 during the same period but represent a substantial increase compared to the 0 to 14 cases documented annually between 2021 and 2023. The eastern regions of Hualien and Taitung account for six of the nine scrub typhus infections reported this year. Despite this geographic concentration, the current scrub typhus case count remains below historical levels, which ranged from 16 to 30 cases during comparable periods from 2021 through 2024.
While scrub typhus infections can occur throughout the year, the CDC notes a distinct seasonal pattern with case numbers beginning to climb in April and May before reaching their highest levels during the summer months of June and July. Eastern Taiwan and the outlying islands typically report the majority of infections. With many citizens planning cemetery visits and outdoor activities for the upcoming holiday, health officials are advising protective attire as the first line of defense. Recommended clothing includes light-colored long-sleeved shirts that make insects more visible, along with gloves, boots, and tucked-in pants to minimize exposed skin that could be targeted by disease-carrying mites.
Chemical protection provides an essential second layer of defense against insect-borne diseases, according to health officials. The CDC specifically recommends applying government-approved repellents containing active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535 to both clothing and any exposed skin surfaces. Post-exposure protocols are equally important — after visiting grassy or wooded areas, individuals should promptly shower, change into fresh clothing, and conduct a thorough body check for any signs of insect bites. The agency emphasizes that anyone experiencing fever, headache, or rash following outdoor activities should promptly consult medical professionals and provide detailed information about recent environmental exposures to aid in accurate diagnosis.
