Taiwan Immigrants' Global News Network-Free COVID Tests Distributed in July

Free COVID Tests Distributed in July

Here is the translation of your text into English:Recently, the number of confirmed local COVID-19 cases has surged. The CDC estimates that the COVID-19 outbreak will enter another peak period in August. The CDC recently collaborated with the Pharmacists Association to provide free COVID-19 rapid tests at over 4,500 pharmacies starting May 6. Beginning in July, the free rapid tests will be distributed by 2,000 clinics.https://news.immigration.gov.tw/NewsSection/Detail/89e578a1-f846-4439-afd0-76f98451e0b5?category=9&lang=TWZeng Shu Hui, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Welfare's CDC, stated that during the previous wave, more than 8 million free rapid tests were distributed at pharmacies, and currently, there are over 3 million tests in stock. To protect the health of those seeking medical care and maximize the effectiveness of epidemic prevention materials, a procurement project titled "Providing Home-use COVID-19 Rapid Tests Through Medical Institutions for Patients" has been initiated.https://news.immigration.gov.tw/NewsSection/Detail/4CD6167F-E6B9-4141-AE6A-B23D1FA81F9B?lang=TWThe public tender closed on June 6, and currently, it is awaiting the completion of the final administrative procedures. This time, the CDC will collaborate with the National Union of Medical Doctors, and starting on July 1, free distribution points will be set up through medical institutions. Statistics show that around 2,000 clinics across Taiwan will participate in the distribution of 3 million home-use rapid tests.Getting vaccinated can alleviate symptoms. Source: Yahoo TaiwanZeng Shu Hui mentioned that the fulfillment of the procurement plan includes distributing at least 3 million home-use COVID-19 rapid tests to medical institutions and ensuring that these institutions do not sell the tests but only provide them free of charge to the public. There will be at least 800 distribution points. The total budget is NT$4.2 million, and it is expected that the bidding process will be completed as early as next week.Zeng Shu Hui also noted that this batch of home-use COVID-19 rapid tests was purchased during the period of the Epidemic Command Center. After assessing the post-epidemic period, it was determined that COVID-19 would continue to persist in the community. Therefore, the rapid tests with expiration dates extending to this year were retained as preparedness materials for use this year.She further explained that the rapid tests distributed by the primary clinics this time will be valid until the end of this year or January next year. This allows people to immediately determine if they are infected with COVID-19 when seeking medical care or vaccination if they exhibit obvious symptoms.Recently, the number of confirmed local COVID-19 cases has surged. The CDC estimates that the COVID-19 outbreak will enter another peak period in August. Source: PexelThe National Union of Medical Doctors' announcement indicated that since the CDC provided NT$1,200 to each pharmacy, to ensure fairness, the union negotiated with the CDC for the rapid test distribution project and service fee of no less than NT$1,300 per medical institution. The final payment amount will be determined based on the number of institutions participating in the project.

2024-06-22 09:00

Japan has seen an outbreak of toxic shock syndrome, with "flesh-eating bacteria" identified as the main culprit.

Japan has recently experienced an outbreak of Group A Streptococcus infections, commonly known as "flesh-eating bacteria," which can escalate to toxic shock syndrome (TSS) with a high mortality rate of up to 30%. As of June 2, 2024, Japan has reported 977 cases of Group A Streptococcus infections resulting in TSS, marking a 2.8-fold increase compared to the same period in 2023, reaching a record high since records began in 1999. Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has stated that no abnormal conditions have been observed domestically.https://news.immigration.gov.tw/NewsSection/Detail/2618A774-FC69-4DAB-B78D-A4739D44F4DC?lang=TWIntroduction to Group A StreptococcusIt not only infects the upper respiratory tract but also may infect the skin or muscle tissue. Image provided by PxHereGroup A Streptococcus is a common bacterial infection that primarily affects children aged 3 to 15, with an incubation period of approximately 1 to 5 days. It can infect not only the upper respiratory tract but also the skin or muscle tissue. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, inflamed tonsils, strawberry tongue, and a rough skin rash (scarlet fever). In severe cases, it can lead to abscesses and cellulitis. When this bacteria invades muscle fascia, it causes tissue necrosis, hence its nickname "flesh-eating bacteria."https://news.immigration.gov.tw/NewsSection/Detail/FABC10DF-153F-4E5C-8342-CAC05726A907?lang=TWToxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)In rare cases, Group A Streptococcus infection can progress to TSS, with symptoms including fever, limb pain, rapid progression to kidney failure and respiratory failure, and even shock leading to death. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Japan has pointed out that older adults and diabetes patients are more susceptible to TSS, but since late 2023, there has been an increase in patients under 50 years old.Prevention and TreatmentDue to Group A Streptococcus being transmitted through skin wounds, droplets, and throat infections, experts recommend wearing masks, frequent handwashing, and handling skin wounds carefully when traveling to Japan to reduce the risk of infection. Professor Ken Kikuchi of Tokyo Women's Medical University Infectious Diseases advises seeking medical attention immediately if there is rapid swelling and spreading of the skin. Infections of Group A Streptococcus are typically treated with antibiotics, with most patients experiencing fever reduction after 1 to 2 days of treatment, but antibiotics should be continued for 10 days.Taiwan's CDC states that Group A Streptococcus infection is not classified as a statutory infectious disease, with weekly cases ranging from 22 to 36, consistent with trends over the past 4 years, and no abnormal conditions observed. Experts advise maintaining good hygiene practices to prevent infection.

2024-06-22 09:00

The best coffee from around the world. I still don't like it

Despite trying some of the finest coffee from around the world, I still haven’t developed a taste for it. From the rich espresso shots in Italy to the aromatic beans of Ethiopia, each cup held the promise of changing my mind. Friends recommended popular brews from Colombia and Costa Rica, where coffee is known for its complexity and rich flavors. However, no matter how celebrated the origin or intricate the brewing method, coffee’s bitter undertone never appealed to me.Uncool beans? Coffee berries grow at a coffee plantation on the Indonesian island of Java. Dimas Ardian/Bloomberg/Getty ImagesCurious, I sought out diverse options — from smooth, nutty roasts to lightly acidic, fruity ones — hoping to find one that suited my palate. I tried artisanal cafes that served single-origin varieties with flavor notes of chocolate, citrus, and even floral hints. I also gave cold brew a shot, which many said was smoother and less bitter. While I could appreciate the craftsmanship and passion behind each cup, none left me craving more.Even adding cream, sugar, or flavored syrups didn’t mask the distinct taste that so many coffee lovers cherish. I realized that, for me, coffee’s complexity just didn’t translate to enjoyment. While I respect coffee culture and understand its global appeal, my personal preference still leans elsewhere. As much as I wanted to embrace it, coffee remains one beverage I’ll happily pass on.

2024-11-07 09:00

Free COVID Tests Distributed in July

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Free COVID Tests Distributed in July

Japan has seen an outbreak of toxic shock syndrome, with "flesh-eating bacteria" identified as the main culprit.

The best coffee from around the world. I still don't like it