The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) stated that from June 4 to
June 10, there were 328 new confirmed local COVID-19 cases (including
complications) in the country, an increase from the previous week's 263 cases
(May 28 to June 3). Among the accumulated cases with complications, elderly
individuals aged 65 and above accounted for 79%. Additionally, there were 20
new deaths reported last week, a decrease from 26 the week before, with elderly
individuals aged 65 and above comprising 90% of the cumulative fatalities. The
situation is assessed to be escalating and entering an epidemic phase.
The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that up to now, a
total of 2.764 million doses of the COVID-19 XBB vaccine have been administered
domestically, with a national vaccination rate of 11.36%. Among those aged 65
and above, the first dose coverage is 20.54%, and the second dose coverage is
1.55%. Currently, there are approximately 2.889 million doses of the Moderna
XBB vaccine and about 48,000 doses of the Novavax XBB vaccine still available
nationwide. Due to the ongoing epidemic situation, the CDC urges those who have
not yet received the COVID-19 XBB vaccine not to underestimate the threat of
the disease and to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
According to surveillance data from the Taiwan Centers for Disease
Control (CDC) over the past four weeks, the monitoring of variant strains shows
that both local and imported cases are predominantly JN.1, accounting for 64%
and 59% respectively, with a recent slight decline. Additionally, the
proportions of KP.2 and KP.3 have slightly increased, with KP.2 accounting for
10% and 22% respectively, and KP.3 at 9% each. Continued monitoring of the
trend in variant strain prevalence is ongoing.
The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reminds the public that due
to ongoing transmission risks, individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever,
cough, runny nose, or sore throat should use home rapid antigen test kits first
and inform healthcare providers of the test results when seeking medical
attention. Furthermore, vaccination with COVID-19 XBB vaccines remains the most
effective method to reduce the risk of severe illness or death post-infection.
People aged 6 months and older are urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
For individuals aged 65 and above, those with immunodeficiency or
weakened immune systems, it is recommended that those who have already received
their first dose and have waited 12 weeks (84 days) should receive their second
dose to enhance protection. This applies to high-risk groups such as
individuals aged 65 and above, Indigenous people aged 55-64, and those aged 6
months and above with immunodeficiency or weakened immune systems. This second
dose helps to lower the chances of severe illness or death. Information on
vaccination locations can be found on the CDC's official website under the
"COVID-19/Coronavirus Vaccine Zone.