Taiwan CDC reports 9,001 enterovirus outpatient visits amid ongoing transmission risks

The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that enterovirus outpatient visits reached 9,001 during the 40th week of the year (October 4 to October 10), representing a 12.8% decrease from the previous week. Despite this downward trend, health officials warn that transmission risks remain high in crowded environments such as schools, childcare centers, and indoor playgrounds.

Laboratory monitoring indicates that Coxsackievirus A6 is the predominant strain currently circulating, followed by Enterovirus D68 and Coxsackievirus A16. This year, there have been seven confirmed cases of severe enterovirus infection, including one fatality. The severe cases involved Enterovirus D68 (5 cases), Coxsackievirus A4 (1 case), and Coxsackievirus A16 (1 case).

In observance of Global Handwashing Day on October 15, the CDC urges the public to practice proper hand hygiene using soap and water. Parents and caregivers are specifically advised to monitor children under five, who are at high risk for severe complications. Warning signs that require immediate medical attention include lethargy, muscle twitching, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, or rapid heartbeat.