Secretariat, Taipei City Government

The Department of Health (DOH) continues to monitor the usage of flu vaccination on a daily basis. After assessment, it has decided to implement phase 2 flu shot management measures to boost vaccination rate among those eligible for the public-funded flu vaccination program.
 
Based on the respective responsibility level of hospitals and clinics, the agency will conduct 3 to 4 deliveries of flu vaccines over the next 2 weeks, with shipment comprising roughly 30,000 doses. With the exception of those from the low risk group (individuals between the age of 50 and 64 without high risk chronic illness) placed on hold, anyone eligible for public-funded vaccine program can visit contracted clinics and hospitals for their flu shots starting November 12.
 
In response to the overwhelming demand of influenza vaccination this year, DOH has adopted measures such as total amount control, guarantee quotas for high risk groups, and flexible adjustment to manage the situation for nearly 3 weeks. As of November 9, flu shots have been administered to 544,159 individuals in Taipei. Among these, vaccination for subjects under community health stations, school campuses, and nursing/care facilities will be completed by the end of November. Supplies for staff working at the aforementioned facilities and medical personnel have also been secured.
 
However, the agency reported that only 40,740 children have received flu shots in Taipei City. This is comparatively less than the number of senior citizens who have received flu shots. To ensure more convenient access, the city government has set up Taipei City Hospital Saturday OPD clinics for children starting October 24. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of this option. DOH reminds parents that pre-elementary school children older than 6 months are considered high risk group for flu, with serious cases leading to complications such as pneumonia and meningitis.
 
The agency also reminds parents of children who have received their first flu shot to return for the second shot after 4 weeks to ensure the effectiveness of vaccination.
 
In addition to vaccination, the public is reminded to continue safe practices such as washing hands, wearing face mask, and maintaining social distancing to minimize the chance of contracting the flu. For more information, please visit the Chinese website of DOH (https://health.gov.taipei/).