Taiwan health officials urge vaccination as influenza severity hits new highs

Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has reported a significant rise in influenza severity, with 219 new severe cases and 44 deaths recorded in a single week, marking seasonal highs. Laboratory monitoring indicates that Influenza A, specifically the H1N1 subtype, accounts for approximately 90.7% of circulating cases.

In response to the rising infection rates and the upcoming National Day long weekend, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an and the Taipei City Health Bureau have launched a vaccination campaign. The city is encouraging eligible citizens to receive both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, which became available for public subsidy on October 1. To boost participation, the Taipei Health Bureau is offering a lottery featuring prizes such as smartphones and home appliances for those who complete their vaccinations.

As of October 5, influenza vaccinations have reached approximately 1.06 million doses, while COVID-19 vaccinations have reached 395,000 doses. Health officials emphasize that it takes approximately two weeks for vaccines to provide sufficient protection and urge high-risk groups to complete their shots promptly.