The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (Taiwan CDC) announced on May 20 that, domestic COVID-19 infections continue to rise. In the 20th week (May 11-17), there were 19,097 COVID-19 outpatient and emergency visits, an increase from the previous week, but lower than the 23,778 visits in the 20th week of 2024; from May 12-19, there were 93 new domestic COVID-19 cases and 4 deaths. This year, there have been a cumulative total of 330 severe domestic COVID-19 cases, including 47 deaths, most of which occurred in elderly people over 65 years old or those with a history of chronic diseases. More than 90% of the confirmed and fatal cases were among individuals who were not vaccinated with the JN.1 vaccine. The domestic epidemic situation is projected to reach its peak in mid-to-late June, with the highest number of COVID-19 medical visits in a single week estimated to be 55,000 to 65,000. In response to this wave of infection, Taiwan CDC has stockpiled sufficient vaccines and antiviral drugs, and the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) has also coordinated with manufacturers and distribution channels to increase the production and distribution of rapid tests. With sufficient epidemic prevention capacity, the public is encouraged to go about their lives with peace of mind.

Taiwan CDC pointed out that as of May 18, this year (2025), a cumulative total of 2.116 million people had been vaccinated with the JN.1 COVID-19 vaccine, showing a national vaccination rate of 8.79%.  Among people over 65 years old, the first and second dose vaccination rates were 18.3% and 0.48%, respectively. Nearly 17,000 people were vaccinated last week (May 12-18), the highest weekly number in the past three months and a 57% increase from the previous week (May 5-11), indicating a growing vaccination uptake. As the domestic epidemic situation escalates, receiving the new JN.1 COVID-19 vaccine is the most effective way to prevent severe COVID-19. Taiwan CDC urges those who have not yet been vaccinated to get vaccinated with the JN.1 vaccine as soon as possible. In addition, individuals in three high-risk groups, including the elderly over 65 years old, who have received one dose should receive a second dose when an interval of 6 months (180 days) has passed since their first dose to enhance their immune protection before the epidemic peak and reduce the risk of severe illness or death. There are still 3.169 million JN.1 vaccines available nationwide for all people aged 6 months and above. In response to rising appointment bookings, Taiwan CDC will increase vaccine distribution this week to meet public demand.

Taiwan CDC stated that the current stockpile of COVID-19 antiviral drugs is sufficient, including 207,000 doses of remdesivir, 469,000 courses of Paxlovid, and 11,000 courses of molnupiravir. Additional orders can be placed through open-ended contracts if needed. TFDA has also coordinated with four major convenience store chains, chain drug stores, community pharmacies, and other channels to keep COVID-19 at-home rapid tests in stock and ensure timely replenishment. Members of the public can visit a nearby distribution channel for rapid tests as needed.