Taiwan reported a significant increase in COVID-19 cases last week, with healthcare visits rising sharply. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed 19,097 outpatient and emergency visits for COVID between May 11 and 17. This figure shows an 88.2% jump from the previous week, according to CDC spokesperson Lo Yi-chun.
However, the current numbers remain lower than the 23,778 visits recorded during the same week last year. Meanwhile, between May 12 and 19, Taiwan reported 93 new local cases with severe symptoms, along with four COVID-related deaths. Experts attribute the rise in cases to a shift in the dominant virus variant.
Six weeks ago, the XEC variant was most common in Taiwan. Since then, the NB.1.8.1 subvariant from the XDV family has surged dramatically. This new subvariant exhibits stronger immune escape and spreads more easily than previous variants. Neighboring countries are experiencing similar patterns, according to Lo.
Furthermore, the immunity people gained from earlier infections has mostly faded, contributing to the new wave. Lo predicts the current wave will peak by mid-to-late June. During this peak, weekly outpatient and emergency visits could reach between 55,000 and 65,000. Although this is much higher than recent weeks, it is still about half of last summer’s peak, which hit 130,000 visits in a single week.
Lo expects the wave to continue through the end of July. The XDV variant, a recombinant strain with genes like those in JN.1, is driving this increase. Despite its higher immune evasion, vaccines targeting JN.1 remain effective, and treatments still work against XDV.
In response, the CDC and the Ministry of Health and Welfare have prepared ample supplies. They have stocked antiviral drugs, ensuring over a year’s worth of medication. Notably, molnupiravir reserves exceed five months of demand. Flexible contracts allow quick additional orders if necessary.
The CDC also secured a steady supply of rapid tests. The Taiwan Food and Drug Administration coordinates with local manufacturers to produce 70,000 to 80,000 test kits weekly. This number can increase depending on demand.
Additionally, convenience stores, chain pharmacies, and community drugstores continue to restock testing kits. The public is encouraged to purchase and use rapid tests as needed to help control the virus spread.
The key phrase “rise in COVID cases” highlights the current situation Taiwan faces as it manages this evolving wave. With ongoing vigilance and resource planning, Taiwan aims to mitigate the impact of the rise in COVID cases while supporting its healthcare system.
