A recent spout of COVID-19 cases reported in Taiwan has raised concerns about low vaccination rates. While no deaths were reported, there have been 41 severe cases since October, with 95% of the infected not having received a vaccination this season.
In response, Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced Friday that it will restart a short-term free-of-charge COVID-19 vaccination program in the first two months of 2025 for individuals older than six months who have not yet been vaccinated.
Authorities stated the policy is meant to reduce respiratory infections leading up to the Lunar New Year, with vaccines available at 4,400 healthcare facilities andcommunity stations across Taiwan.
There are two brands of COVID-19 vaccines currently available in Taiwan that have been officially approved as safe and effective against prevailing COVID variants: Moderna LP.8.1 and Novavax JN.1. Individuals twelve and older can choose either vaccine, with children restricted to Moderna.
The CDC emphasized that regular seasonal vaccinations are the best protection against COVID-19 andshould be prioritized by both the elderly and individuals with chronic conditions
