TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The head of the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC), Wang Pi-sheng, refuted claims on Tuesday (Nov. 1) that health authorities purchased Medigen vaccines above the market price. Taiwan's agency responsible for issuing guidance on health prevention efforts has recently come under fire for its alleged hefty purchase of domestically-developed Medigen vaccine doses.
Some compared Medigen's market price at around NT＄840 with other vaccine brands, such as Pfizer vaccines which were reported to have been purchased at around NT＄630 per dose. However, the head of the CECC set the record straight that day, explaining that the comparison was based on inaccurate estimations of the vaccines’ purchase prices.
At the CECC's press conference, Wang remarked that it's difficult for any country to develop vaccines, pointing out that after Taiwan's efforts in creating one, the public shouldn't be spreading baseless accusations about its price. Meanwhile, health authorities also defended former CECC commander Chen Shih-chung as the former CECC top official prepares for his bid for Taipei City mayor.
Local media reported that CECC health officials were spotted convening with the mayoral hopeful late at night, which led many to suspect Chen was receiving briefings and tips for his upcoming mayoral debate on Nov. 5. In response to media inquiries, Wang brushed aside the accusations with a smile and remarked that the public has a great deal of confidence in him and other health officials if they believe they are able to prep Chen.
As the nine-in-one elections draw near and the pandemic continues to bring about new cases, all eyes are on the CECC, and its former head as the public scrutinizes their every move.