The government-funded flu and COVID-19 vaccines are now available. To improve the convenience of vaccination, the CDC has launched an “Accompanying Vaccination” initiative for the first time this year, encouraging people to bring seniors and young children to get vaccinated together. Starting today, those who accompany individuals eligible for the first phase of the flu or COVID-19 vaccination and meet the requirements for the second phase (beginning November 1) can receive the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time, without having to wait until the next phase, thus reducing the inconvenience of making multiple trips.
People need to receive the latest vaccine every year to ensure optimal protection. (Photo Courtesy of Heho Health)
Minister of Health and Welfare, Qiu Taiyuan, stated that this year the government has procured approximately 6.43 million doses of the quadrivalent flu vaccine and about 5.5 million doses of the new JN.1 COVID-19 vaccine, available for people eligible for the publicly funded vaccination. He emphasized that both flu and COVID-19 viruses mutate rapidly, with different strains circulating each year. The protection provided by the vaccines lasts only one year. Therefore, people need to get vaccinated annually to ensure the best protective effect.
Many people mistakenly believe that vaccination is solely to prevent infection. Dr. Cheng Shaoyi, Director of the Family Medicine Department at National Taiwan University Hospital, clarified that the primary purpose of vaccination is to reduce hospitalization and mortality rates after infection. She reminded the public, especially healthcare workers, the elderly, young children, and new parents—high-risk groups—to prioritize getting vaccinated in the first phase. The two vaccines can be administered on the same day or at any time interval at different sites, providing dual protection.
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines administered simultaneously. (Photo Courtesy of Heho Health)
According to the CDC, this year, nearly 4,000 contracted medical institutions nationwide are offering vaccination services. The public can use the local health bureau websites, the CDC’s Influenza Prevention Portal, the CDC’s official website, the "CDC Home" app, or call the 1922 epidemic prevention consultation hotline to find nearby contracted institutions, check their operating hours, and confirm appointment availability to avoid missing vaccination opportunities or wasting waiting time, ensuring smooth vaccination. Vaccination effectively reduces the risk of severe illness or complications after infection, protecting the health of oneself and family members.
