On April 18, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) stated in response to the continued spread of COVID-19 in the region, the CECC announced today that beginning 00:00 Taipei Standard Time on April 21, inbound travelers who have visited Southeast Asia in the last 14 days (starting 00:00 Taipei Standard Time on April 7) should complete the COVID-19 Health Declaration and Home Quarantine Notice and confirm if their residence satisfies the home quarantine requirements before boarding. The new measure aims to help protect the health of the entire nation.
The CECC also announced that such inbound travelers should stay at a quarantine hotel after entering Taiwan if they live with people who are 65 years old or older, children 6 years old or under, persons with chronic diseases (such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes or lung diseases), or persons who don’t have a separate room (including a separate bathroom). Those who make a false health declaration will be fined up to NT$150,000.
The CECC pointed out that neighboring Southeast Asian and South Asian countries have still greatly hit by the virus, including Singapore, India, and Indonesia. Singapore cases are mainly clustered in migrant workers' dormitories, with a total of about 2,700 cases, accounting for 70% of local cases. The outbreaks in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand have slowed down.
The CECC appealed again that people should practice regular hand-washing, avoid touching the face, and conduct cough etiquette. If symptoms occur, people have to contact local health departments to seek medical treatment as soon as possible and avoid taking public transportation. Those who violate will be fined up to NT$1,000,000.
