H1N1 Flu Virus Killed 56 People in Taiwan Over The Past Three Months; Get Flu Vaccination Before Visiting

While we’re trying to deal with and contain the Wuhan virus here in Singapore, Taiwan is facing a different, but equally deadly seasonal flu: The H1N1 Swine flu.

771 H1N1 Cases With Severe Complications Over The Past 3 Months

According to Taiwan’s Centres of Disease Control (CDC), H1N1 is the predominant virus type in Taiwan over the past three months.

“During this season, there have been 771 influenza cases with severe complications since Oct 1, including 56 deaths.”

And the trend indicates that older people are at higher risk.

Out of these cases, 41% are over the age of 65  while 32% are between 50 and 64 years old.

No Flu Vaccinations

56 people died from H1N1 with severe complications throughout the same period.

And it was found that 55 out of 56 people did not have flu vaccinations. The one who had flu vaccination is an 80-year-old lady who contracted the virus even after her vaccination.

It was also revealed that 98% of the patients with severe complications did not have flu vaccinations.

That and up to 80% of them has chronic diseases.

In a nutshell, people who:

• didn’t get flu vaccinations
• are older
• have chronic diseases

Are at higher risks.

The Taiwan government is now offering free vaccination shots to students (elementary to high school), healthcare workers and the elderly.

If You’re Thinking Of Visiting Taiwan Anytime Soon

Remember to get yourself vaccinated for flu before travelling to Taiwan.

Also, if you’re bringing your parents along or you are suffering from chronic diseases, be sure to be careful while you’re there.

Similar to the Wuhan Coronavirus (which is said to be very similar to influenza), you can take precautions against H1N1 when you’re out and about holidaying in Taiwan.

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap
• Wear a face mask if you’re unwell (coughing, sneezing, etc)
• Visit a doctor if something is wrong immediately
• Don’t touch your face with your hands as the virus can be transmitted through your eyes, nose, mouth.

And remember to e-register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) when you’re out and about. You can do it here.

Hopefully, when warmer weather arrives in Taiwan, it will spell the end of the H1N1 outbreak, similar to what experts are saying about the Wuhan Virus.

Share this with your friends who are travelling to Taiwan soon!