Taipei: The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced an increase in COVID-19 cases, with projections indicating the current wave will peak in late June or early July.

According to Focus Taiwan, Centers for Disease Control (CDC) statistics reveal that 41,402 individuals sought treatment for COVID-19 between May 18 and 24, marking a 113 percent rise compared to the previous week. The CDC anticipates that weekly treatment seekers could reach between 150,000 and 200,000 this summer.

Health Minister Chiu Tai-yuan assured that Taiwan has sufficient antiviral medication, including 450,000 courses of Paxlovid, the primary treatment. Rapid test kits will be available at major convenience store chains and pharmacies. Chiu stated that local manufacturers can provide around 600,000 kits, with a total of 1.2 million kits expected to be distributed next week.

CDC Deputy Director-General Lo Yi-chun highlighted that the prevalent variant, NB.1.8.1, is highly contagious and can evade the immune system more effectively. Despite this, existing antiviral drugs and vaccines remain effective. He reported that 2.157 million vaccine doses have been administered, with 3.128 million doses still available. Lo urged the public to get vaccinated and wear masks.

Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee reported that Premier Cho Jung-tai instructed the Ministry of Health and Welfare to monitor medical capacity to ensure adequate public care. He also emphasized assessing rapid test demand and managing distribution based on the epidemic’s progression. The premier urged enhanced public messaging on personal hygiene, especially before the Dragon Boat Festival long weekend.