Flu vaccine demand continues to rise sharply across Taiwan as the country enters an early and aggressive flu season. Since October 1, healthcare workers have administered over 2.12 million publicly funded flu shots. That figure marks a five-year high and reflects growing urgency among the population.
Last year, Taiwan recorded just 1.57 million doses during the same period. This year’s increase highlights a stronger response to seasonal health threats. Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed the vaccination figures in a briefing on Tuesday. The agency said the early arrival of flu season has driven strong public participation.
To meet the rising flu vaccine demand, the CDC will purchase 200,000 more doses. Officials plan to finish distributing these vaccines across the country by early November. The CDC will prioritize areas hit hard by recent natural disasters, such as Hualien County. Other regions will receive supplies based on population and local needs.
Flu-like illnesses have started to decline slightly, ending a nine-week upward trend. From October 5 to 11, Taiwan recorded about 137,988 cases at clinics and hospitals. That number reflects a 10.2% drop from the 153,725 cases reported the previous week. CDC Spokesperson Tseng Shu-hui suggested the long National Day holiday may have influenced the decline. Many clinics closed during that period, which affected the reporting numbers.
Despite the dip, flu activity remains strong. Emergency room visits still accounted for 13.6% of flu-related cases, showing ongoing pressure on hospitals. Lab results show influenza A (H3N2) as the dominant strain this season. The country also faces cases from influenza A (H1N1) and influenza B.
CDC specialist Tsou Tsung-pei discussed a severe case involving a 68-year-old man with pre-existing conditions. He developed pneumonia after a week of symptoms and later died in intensive care. Tsou encouraged high-risk groups, especially seniors over 65, to get vaccinated without delay. She emphasized that early protection can reduce severe illness.
As flu vaccine demand continues to grow, the CDC urges eligible residents to take advantage of free shots. The government remains focused on easing hospital loads and preventing avoidable deaths this season.
