TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan launched a nationwide free flu and COVID-19 vaccination campaign Wednesday (Oct. 1), targeting vulnerable populations as respiratory diseases surge during autumn and winter months. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 疾病管制署), Taiwan's disease prevention agency, announced the phased rollout through nearly 4,000 contracted hospitals nationwide. Public figures received vaccinations during a press conference to promote the immunization drive.
Taipei offers vaccination incentives including iPhone 17 prizes, Apple Watches, and home appliances to boost immunization rates. Department of Health (衛生局) director Chien-Hua Huang (黃建華) announced citizens vaccinated between Oct. 1 and Nov. 15 at designated facilities qualify for the lottery. Participants receive one prize entry per vaccination dose administered during the campaign period.
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) emphasized campaign urgency, citing over 2,400 flu cases and 470 deaths during the previous season. The mayor highlighted critical vaccination gaps among elderly residents, whose COVID-19 immunization rate remains approximately 20%. Taipei organized over 1,000 vaccination events to improve accessibility for vulnerable populations.
The vaccination program operates in two phases targeting specific demographic groups for systematic immunization coverage. Phase one covers 11 priority groups including healthcare workers, epidemic prevention personnel, and citizens aged 65 and older. Phase two begins Nov. 1, expanding eligibility to individuals aged 50 to 64 through nearly 4,000 contracted hospitals nationwide. ◼