TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan is bracing for the sixth wave of COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) predicts a peak during the second week of July, with an estimated 130,000 medical visits.
From July 2 to July 8, Taiwan reported 987 new cases and 99 deaths, and the number of deaths is a 55% increase from the previous week, the CDC reported on Tuesday (July 9).
CDC spokesperson Tseng Shu-hui (曾淑慧) noted that approximately 126,000 people sought medical attention, with an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 contracting the virus.
The CDC found that JN.1 was the most prevalent strain, followed by KP.2 at 23%, and LB.1 at 18%.
In response, the CDC plans to procure 5.5 million additional COVID-19 vaccine doses. Starting in October, the CDC will roll out these vaccines alongside publicly funded flu vaccines in phases.
The CDC's proactive measures aim to curb the rising death toll and manage the spread of the virus more effectively. Authorities urge the public to stay vigilant and get vaccinated immediately.