Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that enterovirus activity remains ongoing nationwide and urged parents and childcare institutions to strengthen environmental hygiene, closely monitor children’s health, and implement preventive measures such as proper handwashing and keeping sick children at home.
According to CDC surveillance data, outpatient and emergency visits related to enterovirus reached 11,913 cases during epidemiological week 48 (November 23–29), similar to the previous week. Laboratory monitoring over the past four weeks shows Coxsackievirus A6 as the dominant strain, followed by Coxsackievirus A16 and A5. A total of 19 severe enterovirus cases have been confirmed this year, including nine deaths, with Echovirus 11 accounting for the majority. Neonatal severe cases have reached 15, marking the highest level in the past six years.
The Taiwan CDC states that the domestic enterovirus outbreak remains in an active transmission phase (Photo iThone)
The CDC noted that adults infected with enterovirus often show mild or no symptoms but may unknowingly transmit the virus to children. The public is advised to change clothes and wash hands with soap upon returning home before caring for infants.
Infants and children under five are at higher risk of severe complications. Immediate medical attention is advised if warning signs such as fever, lethargy, muscle twitching, persistent vomiting, or rapid breathing occur.
