TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 疾管署) announced on Wednesday (Dec. 25) the first measles cluster of the year in a hospital, adding seven confirmed cases. This year saw the highest domestic and imported measles cases in five years, prompting warnings for public vigilance. The CDC linked these new cases to a hospital-related outbreak announced on Dec. 10, originating from Vietnam.
The affected individuals include three female nurses in their 20s, a female cleaning staff in her 30s, a female doctor in her 40s, a male maintenance worker in his 20s, and a family member of a patient in their 50s. They developed symptoms between Dec. 14 and Dec. 19, with rashes appearing from Dec. 17 to 21. In response to the outbreak, the hospital convened a meeting on Dec. 19 and initiated an MMR vaccination plan for all staff, including outsourced and welfare personnel.
The CDC and health bureau will continue to oversee infection control and monitor the health of those exposed. A total of 1,149 people have been swiftly arranged for vaccination. Taiwan recorded 26 measles cases this year, with ages ranging from 20s to 50s as of Dec. 23. Among these, 17 are domestic infections, including four clusters, and nine are imported. The imported cases originated from Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, and three were from aircraft infections.
The CDC emphasized measles' high contagion, urging the public to avoid healthcare facilities unless necessary and to practice respiratory hygiene. It also advised doctors should remain vigilant and report suspected measles cases immediately to mitigate virus spread.