We have had a number of questions from our global customers who are concerned about coronavirus in Taiwan. Due to Taiwan’s closeness to China, we understand that you may feel worried and unsure whether it is safe to visit Taiwan at this moment. As a lot of fake news makes travelers confused and scared, here we collect some information to deliver the correct details regarding the situation in Taiwan and help you decide whether or not you should proceed your travel plan to Taiwan during this period of time.
What is the Coronavirus?
The name of coronavirus comes from its shape as it resembles a crown. According to the World Health Organization (WHO): “Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV).” The current outbreak from Wuhan is known as a novel coronavirus (COVID-19), which means it is a strain of the virus that has previously never been identified in humans.
On 31 January, 2020, WHO has declared the virus (2019-nCoV) a “public-health emergency of international concern.”
What are the Symptoms of Novel Coronavirus?
Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.
Is Coronavirus an Issue in Taiwan?
The virus is from Wuhan, Hubei province, China. It is 943km from Taipei.
There are 49 confirmed cases in Taiwan to date (12 March, 2020) . It includs 26 indigenous cases and 23 imported cases.
What Does Taiwan Government Do against the Virus?
Honestly, Taiwan’s epidemic prevention measures are likely to be the fastest and most transparent in the world. All requisite measures are in place to protect the people of Taiwan from the coronavirus.
- Chinese nationals are temporarily prohibited from entering Taiwan from 6 February and all China tourism groups have already departed from Taiwan.
- Entry into Taiwan to be Suspended for Hong Kong and Macao Residents starting from Midnight on February 11 as Disease Control Takes Priority.
- Foreign nationals who have visited or resided in China, Hong Kong and Macau in the previous 14 days are temporarily prohibited from entering Taiwan from February 7.
- 14-day home quarantine to be required for travelers transiting through China, Hong Kong and Macau and granted entry into Taiwan from February 10.
- Travelers who have traveled to Korea Italy, Iran in the past 14 days (transits not included) are required to follow a 14-day home quarantine after entering Taiwan.
- All international cruise ships will be prohibited from entering Taiwanese ports from 6 February.
- Travelers entering Taiwan to be required to complete health declaration before entering form February 11.
- During this period of time, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) in Taiwan will have press conference everyday to announce the updated news about the epidemic, making sure everything is transparent. Clink to check the press releases
Should I Visit Taiwan Now?
At this moment, the risk of traveling to Taiwan is relatively low compared to other Aisa countries and we have confidence in our epidemic prevention system.
All the attractions, public transportations, restaurants, shops and public places such as hospital are operating as usual but some shortened their opening hours. The biggest difference is that many places/businesses are taking extra precautions such as below to protect visitors.
- Check your temperature before you enter the places/shops/hotels…etc.
- Prepare hand sanitizer for visitors.
- Encourage their staffs to wear face (surgical) masks.
We hope to inform you the true situation in Taiwan, but we also would like to let you know: if you don’t feel assured to travel during this period, it is fine to postpone your plan.
What Should I Notice if I Visit Taiwan at This Moment?
1. Do not transfer from China, Hong Kong, Macau as 14-day home quarantine is required.
2. Make sure you will not travel to Korea Italy, Iran in the past 14 days (transits not included)
3. Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
4. Prepare 75% alcohol and face (surgical) masks in advance.
5. Wear a (surgical) face mask if you visit enclosed public spaces.
6. Cover mouth and nose with tissue when coughing and sneezing – throw tissue away immediately and wash hands.
7. The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided. Raw meat, milk or animal organs should be handled with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods, as per good food safety practices.
8. When visiting live markets, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals.
9. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing seek medical care early and share previous travel and exposure history with your doctor.
Contact Us
If you have any worries or questions about upcoming trips to Taiwan, or need to clarify any rumors, please feel free to contact your tour consultant or email us: topology.travel@gmail.com.