TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's flu cases surged to 104,348 outpatient and emergency visits last week, marking an 11.9% increase that pushed the island toward epidemic status, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 疾管署) announced Tuesday (Jan. 20). Officials warn the outbreak could intensify significantly as the Chinese New Year holiday approaches, with weekly visits potentially soaring to between 130,000 and 140,000 during the festive period.
The agency reported 17 new severe flu cases last week, including two deaths, as emergency room visits reached 10.3% — dangerously close to the epidemic threshold of 11%. Health authorities expect Taiwan to officially enter epidemic status as early as this week, with the outbreak projected to peak during the Chinese New Year holiday period when family gatherings across the island dramatically increase transmission risks among all age groups.
The CDC urged high-risk groups to receive free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations immediately, warning that holiday gatherings significantly elevate disease transmission. The vaccination campaign specifically targets vulnerable populations ahead of the Chinese New Year period, when millions of Taiwanese travel across the island to reunite with family members for the nation's most important annual celebration and extended festivities. ◼
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