In response to the continuous increase in confirmed cases of novel coronavirus pneumonia in mainland China, the epidemic prevention command center reminds travelers that if you return from Wuhan and its neighboring areas, and experience symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath upon entry—regardless of whether you have taken antipyretics or cough suppressants—please proactively report to airport or port quarantine officers for a health assessment. Failure to report truthfully may result in fines.

The command center stated that according to data released by China’s CDC on January 21, there are currently 219 confirmed cases in mainland China, including 198 in Wuhan, 14 in Guangdong Province, 5 in Beijing, and 2 in Shanghai. The aforementioned cases in Guangdong, Beijing, and Shanghai are all undergoing isolated treatment at designated local hospitals.

 

Currently, Wuhan has a total of 198 confirmed cases, with 25 discharged, deaths increasing from 3 to 4, and 169 still hospitalized. The newly deceased case in Wuhan was an 89-year-old male with underlying chronic conditions including diabetes, hypertension, and other heart diseases. He developed symptoms on January 13 and passed away on January 19. Currently, there are a total of 4 confirmed cases in neighboring countries: 2 in Thailand, 1 in Japan, and 1 in South Korea—all Chinese nationals with travel history to Wuhan.

 

In response to the Wuhan pneumonia outbreak in mainland China, the command center continues to strengthen epidemic monitoring and border control measures. All inbound travelers with fever at international ports and small three links ports are being comprehensively questioned about their Wuhan travel history and undergo health assessments. Since December 31, 2019, onboard quarantine inspections of direct flights from Wuhan have been carried out, covering 36 flights and quarantining 4,308 passengers and crew members. On January 20, two new cases of severe pneumonia were reported. These individuals are currently under observation and treatment in hospital emergency isolation rooms, with samples collected for testing.

 

The command center once again urges the public that “severe pneumonia with novel pathogens” has now been listed as a Category V notifiable infectious disease in Taiwan. According to Article 31 of the Infectious Disease Control Act, medical personnel must inquire about the patient's medical history, treatment records, exposure history, travel history, and other relevant information when patients seek medical attention; patients or their families must provide truthful statements.

 

If the public or travelers develop suspected symptoms after returning home—for example, experiencing fever or respiratory symptoms within 14 days of returning—please call the 1922 hotline and follow instructions to wear a mask and seek medical attention promptly. You should also proactively inform the doctor of your travel and contact history. Those who fail to report truthfully may be subject to fines ranging from NT$10,000 to NT$150,000 under Article 69 of the Infectious Disease Control Act.


The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reminds the public that confirmed cases of novel coronavirus pneumonia in mainland China continue to rise, with cases confirmed in South Korea, Japan, and Thailand. During the peak travel season of the Lunar New Year, the ministry urges citizens traveling abroad to enhance personal hygiene protection and self-health management.