Taiwan CDC urges vaccination before current COVID-19 supply expires

The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued a call for non-high-risk individuals to utilize the remaining 12 days of the current expanded COVID-19 vaccination program. Approximately 100,000 doses remain available, but due to thawing expiration limits, these doses must be administered by September 9. Following this period, the government will transition to a new phase of vaccinations in October, which will prioritize ten specific high-risk groups, including seniors aged 65 and older and those with chronic illnesses.

Recent monitoring data shows a slight decrease in outpatient visits for COVID-19, yet the country recorded 59 new local severe cases and 19 deaths in the past week, marking a seasonal high in mortality. Data indicates that 86.5% of severe cases were among unvaccinated individuals.

Starting in October, the government will launch a synchronized vaccination campaign for both influenza and the next generation of COVID-19 vaccines. The new COVID-19 vaccines, including Moderna's XFG variant, are expected to offer improved antibody responses and higher efficacy in preventing severe illness compared to previous versions. Additionally, a new 'Health Coin' incentive program will be introduced in October to reward citizens aged 18 and older for participating in preventative vaccinations.