TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taiwan Health Alliance (台灣健康聯盟) released a white paper Monday (Dec. 15), urging legislators to integrate adult vaccines into health examinations and long-term care. The alliance calls for enhanced adult vaccine policies amid Taiwan's entry into super-aged society status this year, with citizens aged 65 and older comprising more than 20 percent of the population. The initiative aims to address growing health risks by incorporating vaccinations into chronic disease management systems.
Li Ping-ying (李秉穎), adjunct attending physician in pediatrics at National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH, 台大醫院), emphasized aligning adult vaccination policies with children's programs. Li stated that policy updates based on scientific evidence are crucial to protect adults from infection and comorbidities. Vaccines can prevent infections and reduce risks of myocardial infarction, stroke, and dementia by minimizing inflammatory responses, Li noted.
Wu Hung-lai (吳鴻來), chairman of the Taiwan Alliance of Patients' Organizations (台灣病友聯盟), highlighted the significance of influenza, zoster, and RSV vaccines for seniors and those with chronic conditions. Wu pointed out that many patients face barriers including insufficient information and high vaccine costs. Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨), Taiwan's ruling party, Legislator Liu Chien-kuo (劉建國) advocated for legalization, regularization, and sustainability of adult vaccine policies, proposing a long-term, transparent financial mechanism.
Liu stressed the need to shift from high-cost treatments to low-cost preventive measures, aiming to make vaccinations as routine as blood pressure checks. Taiwan entered super-aged society status this year, meaning more than 20 percent of its population is aged 65 or older. Policymakers must adapt strategies to combat chronic disease and infection risks effectively amid this demographic milestone. ◼ (