Taiwan’s First Coxsackie B5 Fatality in 10 Years

Taiwan has reported its first fatal case of Coxsackie B5 enterovirus in a decade after a one-year-old boy from southern Taiwan succumbed to complications in early March, according to the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

The boy initially developed a fever and respiratory symptoms, but his condition rapidly worsened. He later experienced seizures and lost consciousness before being diagnosed with acute encephalitis. Despite intensive care treatment, he passed away on the sixth day of illness, CDC spokesperson Lo Yi-chun (羅一鈞) confirmed.

The case marks Taiwan’s third enterovirus-related fatality in 2025 and the first severe Coxsackie B5 infection of the year.

Understanding Coxsackie B5: A Rare but Dangerous Virus

Coxsackie B5 is a strain of enterovirus, a group of viruses that commonly cause mild infections in children. Symptoms usually include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Mouth ulcers
• Blisters on the hands and feet

In rare cases, however, the virus can lead to severe neurological complications, such as acute encephalitis (brain inflammation), myocarditis (heart inflammation), or severe respiratory distress.

Since 2014, Taiwan has documented only eight severe Coxsackie B5 cases, with two previous fatalities before this recent case.

Rising Enterovirus Cases in Taiwan: CDC Issues Warning

CDC officials warned that Taiwan has already recorded four severe enterovirus cases in 2025, including three deaths.

Although current infection rates remain low, health authorities predict a surge in cases starting in April, as warmer weather typically fuels the spread of enteroviruses.

Lo urged parents to stay vigilant, especially for young children under two years old, who are at higher risk of severe complications.

Key Symptoms That Indicate Severe Enterovirus Infection

Parents and caregivers should seek immediate medical attention if children show any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent vomiting
• Drowsiness or lethargy
• Muscle twitching or jerking movements
• Rapid or labored breathing
• Seizures or loss of consciousness

Preventive Measures: How to Protect Children from Enteroviruses

The CDC recommends the following precautions to reduce the risk of infection:
✔️ Frequent Handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the restroom and before meals.
✔️ Disinfection of Surfaces: Regularly clean objects and surfaces that children frequently touch.
✔️ Avoiding Crowded Places: Keep children away from daycare centers, playgrounds, and public spaces if they are sick.
✔️ Early Isolation of Sick Individuals: If a child shows enterovirus symptoms, they should stay home to prevent spreading the virus.

The Threat of an Enterovirus Outbreak in 2025

Health experts believe that this year’s enterovirus outbreak could be more severe than in previous years, given the rising trend in cases.

Infections are expected to increase significantly between April and June, as warmer temperatures favor virus transmission. Taiwan experienced low enterovirus activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, but with relaxed restrictions, the virus is now making a strong comeback.

CDC officials emphasized that there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for most enterovirus infections, making prevention and early symptom recognition critical.

Government Response & Public Health Measures

Taiwan’s public health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging hospitals to prepare for a potential surge in severe cases.

The government has also increased public health awareness campaigns to educate parents, caregivers, and schools about infection control measures.

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