The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (Taiwan CDC) held a press conference today (November 1) at PX Mart titled “Get Flu and COVID-19 Shots for Good Health,” officially announcing the start of the second phase of the 2025 publicly funded influenza and COVID-19 vaccination program. Starting November 1, the program expands eligibility to include adults aged 50 to 64 without high-risk chronic diseases, while vaccination remains available to individuals eligible under the first phase. By broadening vaccination coverage, Taiwan CDC aims to strengthen overall community immunity and safeguard public health.

Taiwan CDC explained that establishing community vaccination stations is a key measure to make vaccination more accessible, allowing the public to receive vaccines conveniently as part of their daily routines or while accompanying eligible family members for vaccination close to home. To this end, Taiwan CDC has continued its public welfare collaboration this year with PX Mart and local health departments across Taiwan. Together, they have set up vaccination stations at designated PX Mart and Mega PX Mart stores, providing citizens with nearby access to publicly funded influenza and COVID-19 vaccines.
 
The press conference was attended by Taiwan CDC Director-General Yi-chun Lo, Deputy Director-General Shu-hui Tseng, PX Mart Deputy Manager Hsiu Ruan, Wholesale Operations Director Chieh-wen Kao, Northern Operations Director Chi-hsin Huang, as well as epidemic prevention program ambassadors Tsu-wu Hsieh and Ai-ling Chu. Director-General Lo and the program ambassadors received their shots on site, demonstrating the importance of vaccination and encouraging all eligible individuals to get vaccinated to protect themselves and their families.

Director-General Lo emphasized that while seniors and individuals with chronic diseases are at higher risk of severe complications, hospitalization, and death from influenza or COVID-19 infections, healthy adults also face increasing risks as immunity declines with age. Adults aged 50 to 64, who often play a central role in supporting their families, are therefore strongly encouraged to receive publicly funded vaccines to protect their health and bring peace of mind to their families.

To make vaccination even more convenient, Taiwan CDC continued its collaboration with PX Mart this year, leveraging its nationwide retail network and the spacious, comfortable venues of Mega PX Mart stores to establish around 120 vaccination stations across Taiwan. This initiative allows citizens to get vaccinated while running daily errands or accompanying eligible family members for vaccination close to home. In addition to the protection provided by the vaccines, those who get vaccinated will also receive special health gifts from PX Mart as part of the campaign. 

At the press conference, campaign ambassadors Mr. Tsu-wu Hsieh and Ms. Ai-ling Chu, both eligible for Phase Two vaccination, rolled up their sleeves to receive their shots on site. Mr. Hsieh reminded the public, “Never delay when it comes to health. Vaccination is the most reliable protection,” and stressed that it not only protects oneself, but also safeguards family members, the elderly, and the wider community. Ms. Chu led by example, receiving influenza and COVID-19 vaccines on schedule every year. She added, “When it comes to disease, prevention is always better than treatment,” expressing hope that her action would inspire more people to do the same.

Taiwan CDC reminded the public that influenza and COVID-19 viruses mutate each year, making annual vaccination essential for effective protection. Getting vaccinated early remains the best prevention strategy. In addition to community vaccination stations, over 4,400 contracted healthcare facilities nationwide are providing publicly funded vaccination services this year. People can find nearby vaccination sites through local health department websites, Taiwan CDC’s “Influenza and COVID-19 Vaccine & Antiviral Map” (https://vaxmap.cdc.gov.tw/), the Taiwan CDC’s official LINE account “疾管家” (＠taiwancdc), or by calling the Communicable Disease Reporting and Consultation Hotline at 1922. It is recommended to confirm service hours or make an appointment in advance to avoid disruptions caused by clinic or station closures or large crowds. Additionally, when attending their vaccination appointment, individuals should bring their National Health Insurance card and relevant documents (such as the Children Health Handbook and Maternal Health Booklet). They should also wear a mask, maintain a safe distance, and practice hand hygiene.