Taiwan's COVID-19 Cases Rise for Fifth Consecutive Week, May Enter Epidemic Phase This Week

Taiwan's COVID-19 infections have risen for five consecutive weeks, and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced that the country may enter a new epidemic phase as early as this week. During the 27th week of 2025 (July 5–11), there were 2,811 outpatient and emergency visits related to COVID-19, a 34.4% increase from the previous week. Neighboring countries including China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore are also experiencing rising cases, prompting public health warnings.

CDC spokesperson Tseng Shu-hui stated that while domestic cases remain at a low level, mathematical modeling suggests a faster rise in outpatient visits this week or the week after next. Once weekly visits exceed 5,000, Taiwan will officially enter a new epidemic phase. The peak is projected for mid-to-late August, with an estimated maximum of around 50,000 weekly visits—lower than last year's peak, partly due to summer school breaks and prior immunity from vaccination or infection.

Among 136 severe domestic cases since October 2025, 72.1% were aged 65 or older, 83.8% had pre-existing chronic conditions, and 94.9% had not received the current season's COVID-19 vaccine. The CDC urges high-risk groups, especially seniors and those with chronic illnesses, to get vaccinated if they haven't or if six months have passed since their first dose.

Free COVID-19 vaccinations are available nationwide for individuals aged six months and above until July 31, 2026. Current vaccine stock includes approximately 450,000 doses of Moderna and 6,000 doses of Novavax. The CDC emphasizes timely vaccination to enhance immune protection.