Investigation of an Indigenous Dengue Fever Outbreak in a Market, Tainan, Taiwan, 2019

DOI: 10.6524/EB.202606_42(12).0001

I-Chun Chen^*, Chin-Hsien Wang, Ching-Ying Chen, Yeuan-Perng Tsay, Tzu-Chun Chen, Hui-Rong Liu

2026 Vol.42 NO.12

Correspondence Author： I-Chun Chen^*

Abstract：

        In 2023, Tainan City experienced the largest local dengue fever outbreak since 2015, with a total of 21,532 confirmed cases. Throughout the epidemic, clusters emerged from different regions. Among them, the Madou District, a non-metropolitan administrative area, saw a rapid increase in case numbers over a short period, reaching 118 confirmed locally acquired cases by the end of the outbreak. An epidemiological investigation revealed that the source of infection was likely linked to a market in Madou. The flow of people at the market was complex, and most individuals were untraceable due to the lack of a registry, which may have contributed to the spread of dengue fever to other areas. Therefore, the local government swiftly mobilized cross-sectoral responses, collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and other relevant agencies to conduct extensive epidemiological investigations, provide public health education, eliminate breeding sites, engage in community mobilization, and implement chemical control measures. These efforts successfully controlled the outbreak. This case study aims to share lessons learned in managing a dengue fever outbreak in a market setting, providing insights for similar public health interventions.