In response to World TB Day on March 24, 2026, under the theme “Yes! We can End TB! Led by countries. Powered by people,” the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (Taiwan CDC) continues to emphasize the importance of tuberculosis (TB) prevention and control. Taiwan CDC, in collaboration with health bureaus across 22 cities and counties, civil society organizations, and the public, is jointly implementing a range of TB control measures and working toward the goal of eliminating TB by 2035.

On March 24, Taiwan CDC held a press conference titled “End TB Together: Communities in Action” to mark World TB Day 2026. Held at Jingxin Garden—a historic site that formerly served as the dormitory complex of the Songshan Sanatorium—the event brought together TB prevention experts and scholars, civil society organizations, and community members. The conference reviewed Taiwan’s TB control history, introduced current prevention and control strategies, and shared implementation experiences from latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) screening and treatment programs. It also promoted everyday preventive practices and highlighted the importance of seeking prompt medical attention when symptoms arise, aiming to encourage broad public participation. 

Taiwan CDC Director-General Yi-Chun Lo stated that, through years of joint efforts by the public health sector, medical institutions, civil society organizations, and government agencies, Taiwan has made significant progress in TB control. In 2025, the incidence of newly reported TB cases declined to approximately 25 cases per 100,000 population, representing a cumulative decrease of 66% compared with 73 cases per 100,000 population in 2005. To accelerate progress toward TB elimination, Taiwan has adopted advanced diagnostic technologies and shorter treatment regimens in line with international standards to improve care efficiency. In addition, screening and treatment for latent TB infection (LTBI) have been progressively expanded among high-risk populations to reduce the risk of active TB and prevent transmission. Taiwan CDC will continue to strengthen inter-ministerial collaboration, working closely with local governments, healthcare institutions, civil society organizations, and community members to ensure early detection and timely intervention, thereby safeguarding public health and safety.

Mr. Ming-chih Yu, Chairman of the Taiwan Anti-Tuberculosis Association, noted that individuals experiencing symptoms such as a cough lasting more than two weeks, chest pain, weight loss, fever, or loss of appetite, or those with abnormal chest X-ray findings, should seek medical evaluation promptly for early diagnosis. He also reminded the public that adopting good daily hygiene practices—including maintaining proper ventilation, observing respiratory etiquette, and managing chronic conditions—can effectively prevent TB transmission and protect both individuals and communities. In addition, the public can start with care and understanding. Through collective support, stigma and discrimination can be reduced, thereby fostering a friendly and supportive environment for patients and advancing toward the goal of TB elimination.

Dr. Chen-yuan Wang, Chairman of the Taiwan Society of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, further explained that latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is asymptomatic and non-infectious, but may progress to active disease over time. With early treatment and adherence to medication, the risk of progression can be reduced by approximately 90%. High-risk groups, including close contacts of TB patients, immunocompromised individuals, residents of long-term care facilities, patients undergoing dialysis, individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), substance users, and those with poorly controlled diabetes, are strongly encouraged to undergo early screening and complete the full course of treatment to help protect community health.

After the press conference, residents of Nangang District were welcomed to visit Jingxin Garden between 11:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. In addition to exploring the historic site, participants were encouraged to take photos with “End TB” promotional fans and to take part in on-site health education activities, thereby raising awareness of TB prevention and promoting collective action.