As Taiwan enters the Dragon Boat Festival long weekend, health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant against COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has reported a significant uptick in cases, with weekly medical visits for COVID-19 reaching 41,402 between May 18 and 24, more than double the previous week’s figure . The current wave is expected to peak in late June or early July, potentially reaching between 150,000 and 200,000 weekly cases .
Public Health Advisory
The CDC advises the public to:
- Wear masks in healthcare facilities, crowded indoor spaces, and on public transportation.
- Practice thorough hand hygiene to reduce transmission risk.
- Monitor symptoms and seek medical attention if experiencing severe signs.
Individuals with mild or no symptoms are encouraged to stay home and isolate, wearing masks if they need to go out .
Special COVID-19 Clinics
To manage the surge, the Ministry of Health and Welfare will open special COVID-19 outpatient clinics in 21 government-run hospitals starting Sunday. These clinics will operate on weekday mornings and evenings, as well as Saturday mornings .
However, Feng Yuan Hospital in Taichung, Taipei Hospital in New Taipei, and Tainan Hospital in Tainan have announced their clinics will begin on Monday, with limited Saturday morning operations .
Vaccination Efforts
In response to the surge, vaccination rates have increased significantly. Between May 19 and 21, 19,189 COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered, approximately three times the number from the same period the previous week . The CDC is offering publicly funded JN.1-based vaccines to individuals aged six months and older, with high-risk groups eligible for a second dose if at least six months have passed since their last vaccination.
Symptoms Requiring Immediate Medical Attention
The CDC urges individuals to seek immediate medical care if they experience:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Persistent chest tightness or pain
- Confusion or delirium
- Blue discoloration of the skin, lips, or fingertips
- Little or no urination for 24 hours
- Difficulty eating, drinking, or swallowing medication
- Heart rate of 100 beats per minute or higher without a fever
- Low blood pressure
For children, warning signs include:
- Fever exceeding 48 hours or above 39°C with cold sweats or chills
- Low physical activity after a fever
- Persistent vomiting, headache, or abdominal pain
- Seizures
- Sunken chest
- Fever over 41°C
- Unsteady walking or difficulty staying awake.
FAQs
What precautions should I take during the Dragon Boat Festival?
Wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, practice good hand hygiene, and avoid unnecessary outings if feeling unwell.
Are COVID-19 vaccines available during the holiday?
Yes, special outpatient clinics will operate during the holiday period. Check with local hospitals for specific schedules.
What should I do if I experience severe symptoms?
Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital or emergency room.
