NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Department of Health, New Taipei City Government (新北衛生局), confirmed on Monday (April 21) a measles case involving a 35-year-old woman. She developed symptoms, including fever and cough, last Wednesday. Officials have placed her in home isolation, while her condition remains stable. They identified four household contacts, none of whom show symptoms, and continue to monitor their health.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 疾管署) data indicates a severe global measles outbreak, with Vietnam posing a high risk. Authorities advise travelers to assess the need for self-paid vaccinations at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital (亞東醫院) or Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital (台北慈濟醫院) two weeks before departure. Health officials recommend wearing masks in hospitals and crowded places to reduce infection risk. They urge those exposed to confirmed cases to watch for symptoms like fever and rash for 18-21 days and seek medical attention immediately if they occur.
Health officials emphasize that measles is highly contagious, with an infectious period extending four days before and after the rash appears. They remind doctors to inquire about travel and contact history when treating patients and to report suspected cases promptly to prevent further spread.
The health department underscores that vaccination is the most effective preventive measure against measles. They urge parents to ensure children receive the MMR vaccine and encourage those born after 1981, including women planning pregnancy and healthcare workers, to consider a booster dose.