Taiwan is ramping up its COVID-19 vaccination efforts by allowing individuals aged 65 and above to receive a second dose of the JN.1 variant-targeting vaccine, starting April 1, 2025. The move comes as emergency room visits related to COVID-19 increased by 4.9% last week, although the overall number of severe infections remains low.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) emphasized that more than 90% of recent severe cases involved unvaccinated individuals, highlighting the importance of continued immunization efforts, particularly for high-risk groups.
Why Is Taiwan Expanding the COVID-19 Vaccine Campaign?
Health officials have observed a steady rise in COVID-19-related hospital visits, prompting concerns about a potential resurgence of the virus. The JN.1 variant, a subvariant of Omicron, continues to be the dominant strain in Taiwan and many other countries. While infections have remained manageable, health authorities are taking proactive measures to prevent severe cases and hospital overcrowding.
The CDC’s decision to offer a second dose to seniors and other vulnerable groups is based on scientific evidence showing that booster shots enhance protection against severe illness and hospitalization, especially for older adults and immunocompromised individuals.
COVID-19 Situation in Taiwan: Key Statistics
- Emergency room visits: 1,900 COVID-19-related ER visits were recorded last week, a 4.9% increase from the previous week.
- Severe infections: The overall number remains low, but over 90% of severe cases involve individuals who had not received a JN.1-targeted vaccine.
- Vaccine coverage: As of March 31, only 17.95% of seniors (65+) and 8.65% of the general population had received the JN.1 vaccine.
JN.1 Vaccine Availability and Expiry Concerns
Taiwan currently offers two vaccines targeting the JN.1 variant—Moderna and Novavax. However, the CDC has confirmed that 66,000 doses of the Novavax vaccine are set to expire on April 5. After this date, only Moderna’s JN.1 vaccine will be available for booster doses.
Who is Eligible for the Second JN.1 Shot?
Starting April 8, 2025, the CDC will expand eligibility for a second JN.1 shot to:
- Seniors aged 65 and above
- Indigenous individuals aged 55-64
- People with weakened immune systems (immunocompromised individuals)
The goal is to provide additional protection for vulnerable groups as the country enters a period of heightened COVID-19 activity.
Why Is a Second Dose Necessary?
Experts recommend booster doses for older adults and immunocompromised individuals because their immune responses tend to weaken over time. The second dose of the JN.1 vaccine is expected to:
- Strengthen immunity against the JN.1 variant
- Reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization
- Improve long-term protection, particularly for high-risk individuals
What’s Next? Taiwan’s Ongoing COVID-19 Strategy
The Taiwanese government remains committed to monitoring the COVID-19 situation closely. Authorities are urging the public, particularly seniors, to get their booster shots to reduce the burden on hospitals.
Health officials also continue to encourage mask-wearing in crowded places, frequent handwashing, and maintaining social distancing where possible.
Public Health Recommendations
- If you are eligible for the second JN.1 vaccine, schedule your appointment at your nearest vaccination center.
- If you have not received the first JN.1 vaccine, consider getting vaccinated as soon as possible.
- Continue to practice good hygiene and safety measures to minimize the risk of infection.
FAQs
Why is Taiwan offering a second JN.1 vaccine dose to seniors?
Health authorities want to provide additional protection to vulnerable groups, as studies show that a second dose strengthens immunity against the JN.1 variant, reducing severe cases and hospitalizations.
When will the second dose be available?
Eligible individuals can receive their second JN.1 shot starting April 8, 2025.
Who is eligible for the second JN.1 shot?
Seniors aged 65 and above
Indigenous individuals aged 55-64
People with weakened immune systems
Is Taiwan experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak?
There has been a slight rise in emergency room visits, but severe cases remain low. Authorities are taking preventive measures to protect high-risk populations.
How many people in Taiwan have received the JN.1 vaccine?
As of March 31, 17.95% of seniors and 8.65% of the general population had received at least one dose.
