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Taiwan reports 326 new COVID cases, majority unvaccinated
Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported 326 new domestic cases of COVID-19 for the week of Dec. 19-25, with 99% of the newly infected individuals not having received the XBB.1.5-adapted vaccine. The CDC also noted a rise in fatalities, with 37 deaths, of which 97% had not been vaccinated with the XBB vaccine. The CDC highlighted that the domestic COVID-19 situation is worsening, with 78% of complications and 90% of deaths affecting people over the age of 65. The global positivity rate for COVID-19 is at its peak, and cases are increasing in neighboring Southeast Asian countries. Since the introduction of the XBB vaccine in Taiwan, almost all domestically reported cases of complications and fatalities have been among unvaccinated individuals. The CDC emphasized the protective role of the vaccine, citing recent Dutch research that found it to be over 70% effective against severe infection in the elderly. The domestic rollout of the XBB vaccine has reached 769,000 doses, with a two-month peak of 68,600 doses administered during the week of Dec. 19-25. The CDC encourages mask-wearing during end-of-year gatherings and New Year’s activities, especially in crowded, poorly ventilated places or when in close contact with vulnerable individuals. Prompt medical attention is advised for those displaying COVID-19 symptoms.2023/12/26 18:15 -
Taiwan CDC: JN.1 COVID variant sporadically detected locally
Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has confirmed that the COVID-19 variant JN.1 has been sporadically detected in Taiwan’s local cases. JN.1 is an offspring of the BA.2.86 variant and was first detected in Taiwan on Oct. 20 through a traveler from Japan. The local proportion of the JN.1 strain is below 5 percent, indicating that it has not become the dominant strain. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended the continued use of the XBB.1.5 vaccine strain, which has been shown to be effective against JN.1 and other emerging variants.2023/12/18 20:10 -
CDC urges vaccinations amid death spike, new wave fears
Taiwan’s CDC is urging high-risk groups, including seniors aged 65 and older and those with chronic illnesses, to get vaccinated promptly in anticipation of a potential new wave of COVID-19 infections by mid to late January. The urgency for vaccinations is emphasized due to the high international positivity rate for COVID-19 and fluctuating domestic cases. While there has been a slight decline in complications from new domestic cases, there has been a concerning increase in deaths, marking the highest in nearly five weeks. The CDC highlights the effectiveness of the XBB.1.5-adapted COVID-19 vaccine, which can reduce the risk of severe illness and death by 50 percent and 61 percent, respectively. Approximately 649,000 doses of the XBB vaccine have been administered nationally, with 43,400 doses given in the last week alone. The CDC also clarifies that mRNA vaccines are safe and effective, designed to enhance mRNA technology without negatively affecting biosystems.2023/12/12 20:29 -
Taiwan reports highest weekly COVID-19 deaths in a month
Taiwan is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 complications and deaths, with the CDC reporting the highest weekly count in a month. Authorities are encouraging vaccinations, especially for high-risk groups, as the country braces for a peak in infections.2023/12/06 17:42 -
Taiwan prioritizes elderly for Moderna XBB.1.5 vaccines
Taiwan prioritizes 65+ for Moderna vaccine, offers test kits and vouchers. Hospitals see a 30% increase in patients. Doctors urge prompt antiviral medication for flu. Elderly advised to get COVID and flu vaccines, with pneumococcal vaccine later.2023/09/26 18:55