Taiwan: Gathering restrictions imposed in and around Taoyuan as of Jan. 27 in response to COVID-19 activity

Event

Officials have imposed some gathering restrictions in and around Taoyuan in response to coronavirus disease (COIVD-19) activity linked to a cluster found at Taoyuan General Hospital. As of Jan. 27, officials have quarantined thousands of residents as a precaution. Most quarantined individuals are allowed to stay in their homes, though some are isolated at government-run facilities. As a precaution, officials have also suspended extracurricular activities at schools throughout Taoyuan, which is located directly west of Taipei. Authorities in nearby Hsinchu City have banned outdoor gatherings of more than 500 people and indoor gatherings of over 100. Further measures limiting gatherings, and possibly transport, could be imposed in and around Taoyuan in the coming days.

Additional emergency response personnel have deployed in Taoyuan to ensure residents wear protective face coverings in public. Mass testing and mandatory quarantines for suspected cases are likely to continue.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if questioned by security personnel. Confirm travel reservations in and around Taoyuan.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.