TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's 1922 epidemic prevention hotline received 21 inquiries Monday (Dec. 22) about HIV preventive medication following Friday's (Dec. 19) knife attack in Taipei that injured an HIV-positive individual. Health Minister Shih Chuh-liang (石崇良) announced the calls came after the Ministry of Health and Welfare (衛福部), Taiwan's health agency, disclosed Saturday (Dec. 20) that one injured victim was HIV-positive. Only a few callers were referred to medical institutions for preventive medication assessment.
Minister Shih addressed the Legislative Yuan's (立法院) Social Welfare and Environmental Hygiene Committee (社福及衛環委員會), Taiwan's parliamentary health oversight body, Monday (Dec. 22) before reviewing the Child Care Services Act (兒童托育服務法) draft. He emphasized that referrals do not automatically lead to medication but noted the chaotic attack scene may have caused some injured individuals to forgo medical registration. The HIV-positive individual has been reported and remains on long-term medication with their condition under control.
The Friday evening attack occurred when 27-year-old Chang Wen (張文) threw smoke bombs and attacked people with a knife near Taipei Main Station (台北車站) and Zhongshan Station (中山站), major subway stops in the capital. The incident killed four people, including the attacker, and injured 11 others. Authorities responded swiftly to contain the violence and secure the transportation hubs.
The ministry urged individuals who might have been exposed to blood or injured but have not sought medical attention to call the 1922 epidemic prevention hotline for preventive medication evaluation. Health officials emphasized the importance of early assessment for potential HIV exposure following the violent incident. The hotline provides confidential consultations and medical referrals for concerned individuals. ◼