The "Gate Guardians" at Taoyuan Airport are stunningly handsome—travelers exclaim: "I thought they were the pilots!"

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Taoyuan Airport is the national gateway and a window for Taiwanese traveling abroad. Yet, as many return home, there’s an unsung group of heroes who never let their guard down, working tirelessly on the front lines of epidemic prevention. These are the quarantine officers from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) under the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Dressed in sharp uniforms, they project a composed and professional image, building a robust epidemic prevention network at the country’s doorstep—the most vital "gatekeepers."

The four most critical checkpoint systems at global airports, collectively known as "CIQS" (Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, Security), refer to customs, document inspection, quarantine, and security checks. Among these, the "Passenger Quarantine Station" established by the CDC at Taoyuan Airport is the frontline team safeguarding public health. There’s no room for negligence—they must block the entry of infectious diseases into Taiwan, prevent domestic outbreaks, and avoid health risks and economic losses.

▲ Quarantine officers wear dark blue uniforms that convey professionalism and composure, while also carrying masks. The emblem (top right) on their chest combines the wings of air travel and the anchor of sea travel, representing the CDC. Their shoulder insignia vary slightly by rank (middle right).

The First Line of Defense Against Infectious Diseases

The CDC operates six regional control centers nationwide, but the most crucial mission lies with the Passenger Quarantine Station at Taoyuan International Airport. With 18 million inbound travelers last year alone, they not only establish the outermost line of defense but also frequently defuse the threat of mass infections. In 2016, the station flagged around 20,000 individuals showing abnormal health conditions, such as fever or diarrhea. After further assessment, samples were collected from those arriving from high-risk areas. If suspected cases were detected, local health authorities were notified to initiate immediate containment measures.

Quarantine officers also highlighted the first confirmed imported case of Zika virus infection, which was identified at the Taoyuan Airport Passenger Quarantine Station. The infected individual was intercepted and tested after displaying a fever. Without these unsung heroes performing essential screening, the risk of imported infectious diseases spreading in the community—and threatening public health—would rise significantly. These frontline guardians protect national health at the gateway.

Quarantine Officers’ Uniforms Resemble Pilots’; Travelers Exclaim: "I Thought They Were Pilots!"

Quarantine officers at Taoyuan Airport wear dark blue uniforms during duty and carry nursing licenses, which they show to passengers if needed to reassure them. They always wear masks—not just to protect travelers, but themselves. Additionally, their uniforms bear a slight resemblance to pilots’ attire, leading some travelers to mistake them for pilots. Many have exclaimed how handsome the quarantine officers look.

For quarantine officers, though the job mostly involves standing all day without rest, they must stay vigilant. No matter how tired, they fulfill their duties—documenting symptomatic travelers and linking data with local health bureaus for follow-up. This ensures seamless epidemic prevention. They also provide health education and reminders upon entry.

"Either we stop you or you’ll be quarantined!" This is the biggest fear and misconception among travelers regarding quarantine. But in reality, travelers are only referred for direct medical isolation if assessed as potential cases of Class I or V notifiable diseases, such as SARS, H7N9, or MERS.

A 16-Word Mantra: "Gentle Attitude, Clear Speech, Polite Manner, Firm Stance"

Quarantine officers at Taoyuan Airport also shared a unique 16-word motto: "Gentle Attitude, Clear Speech, Polite Manner, Firm Stance." This means maintaining a firm stance while communicating gently and politely with travelers, clearly explaining quarantine procedures and health advice—avoiding overly technical terms or causing discomfort.

However, besides their primary duties, quarantine officers often serve as the first government contact for inbound travelers. Many approach the quarantine station with questions about transit procedures, baggage claim, or document checks. Officers kindly assist with such inquiries. Given their medical backgrounds, they also provide immediate first aid if a traveler experiences a health emergency, and promptly notify the Airport Operations Control Center (OCC).

Whether ensuring airport security or screening for infectious diseases, Taoyuan International Airport safeguards public safety while balancing official duties with passenger needs. The CDC’s quarantine officers at the airport combine professionalism with approachability, embodying the role of "gatekeepers" for national health.