MISUNDERSTANDING:
The centers denied claims that it only offers Moderna vaccines and pushed back against claims that the ministry estimated 1.81 million COVID-19 cases
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) yesterday reiterated that Taiwan has sufficient antiviral medication for COVID-19 patients and emphasized the importance of vaccination, amid concerns raised by public figures.
Taiwan has 458,000 courses of Paxlovid, the first-line treatment for eligible COVID-19 patients, 9,900 courses of the second-line alternative molnupiravir and 5,000 courses of the Japan-developed Xocova, which became available last month, the CDC said in a statement.
Taiwan also has 204,000 doses of remdesivir, according to the CDC, which discussed COVID-19 medication inventory on Thursday amid rumors of a shortage.
Photo: CNA
The medications are more than sufficient to meet projected treatment needs during the current surge in COVID-19 cases, as they are prescribed only for patients at higher risk of developing severe illnesses, it said.
The CDC’s statement pushed back against remarks made by Taipei City Councilor Hou Han-ting (侯漢廷), who in a Facebook post the day before questioned the adequacy of the nation’s COVID-19 medication supply.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare projected up to 1.81 million COVID-19 cases and Hou said he wondered whether the 810,000 courses of medication would leave 1 million patients without access to treatment.
The CDC said the ministry estimated up to 1.71 million hospital visits due to COVID-19 between late last month and early this month, not 1.81 million cases.
Only about 20 percent of people who test positive for COVID-19 are prescribed antiviral treatments to prevent severe illness or death, it said, adding that other people receive medication for mild symptoms instead.
The CDC also responded to an op-ed by Taiwan Counter Contagious Diseases Society President Wang Jen-hsien (王任賢), which was published in yesterday’s China Timeswhere he said the government does not need to promote vaccination when only Moderna’s mRNA-based vaccine is available.
Taiwan has been procuring COVID-19 vaccines from Moderna and Novavax since May 2023, the CDC said, denying claims that it only offers Moderna vaccines.
It is the government’s responsibility to provide evidence-based expert recommendations so the public can make informed decisions about vaccination, it said.
Vaccination is not mandatory, it added.
Taiwan’s COVID-19 Response: Fact-Checking and Expert Insights with Dr. Anya Sharma
Keywords: Taiwan COVID-19,COVID-19 Medication,COVID-19 Vaccination,Moderna Vaccine,Paxlovid,Taiwan CDC,Public Health,Anti-Viral treatment
Time.news: Welcome, Dr. Sharma. Thank you for joining us today to shed light on the recent developments and misinformation surrounding Taiwan’s COVID-19 response. There’s been some public debate regarding medication availability and vaccine options. Can you clarify the current situation based on information released by the CDC?
Dr. Anya Sharma: absolutely. Let’s begin by addressing those specific points directly. Recent discussions, including remarks from Taipei City Councilor Hou Han-ting, have raised concerns about the adequacy of Taiwan’s COVID-19 medication supply. The CDC has clearly stated that Taiwan has a substantial stockpile of antiviral medications, including Paxlovid, molnupiravir, and Xocova, alongside remdesivir. These supplies are deemed sufficient to handle the projected treatment needs during the current surge, notably for individuals at higher risk of severe illness.
Time.news: So, the concern about a million patients possibly missing out on treatment is unfounded, as it were?
Dr. Anya Sharma: Yes, that’s a key clarification. The figure of 1.81 million relates to the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s projected hospital visits due to COVID-19,not necessarily the number of COVID-19 cases. importantly, only a percentage of those testing positive require direct antiviral treatment to prevent severe disease. Many others manage symptoms through supportive care. The crucial point is appropriate medication allocation based on severity and risk factors.
Time.news: That makes the situation substantially clearer. The article also mentions criticism concerning vaccine offerings. Could you elaborate on the claim that Taiwan is only providing Moderna vaccines?
Dr.Anya Sharma: This is inaccurate. The CDC has specifically denied claims that only Moderna vaccines are available.Taiwan has been procuring COVID-19 vaccines from both Moderna and Novavax since May 2023. Thus, the public has a choice between different vaccine platforms.
Time.news: With regards to vaccination strategy, what’s the most vital piece of information that the public should be aware of?
Dr. Anya Sharma: the crucial thing to remember is that vaccination remains a vital tool in mitigating the severity of COVID-19. While it’s not mandatory, vaccination considerably reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death, especially for vulnerable populations. The CDC’s statement rightly emphasizes the importance of providing evidence-based expert recommendations so the public can make informed decisions about their own health.
Time.news: This information is very helpful. What are the broader implications of this situation? How would you advise our readers deal with misinformation about COVID-19?
Dr. Anya Sharma: This situation underscores the importance of relying on credible sources and scientific evidence when making healthcare decisions. Misinformation can lead to unnecessary anxiety and potentially harmful choices. From a public health perspective, clear and transparent communication from government health agencies, such as the CDC, is essential to build public trust and encourage informed decision-making. Further, it highlights the importance of not only combating misinformation but also promoting media literacy so people are able to distinguish fact from fiction.
Time.news: And what action(s) should people take now concerning covid-19, and treatment of it, in taiwan?
Dr.Anya Sharma: First, stay informed by looking at credible sources from health agencies like the CDC and WHO. Second, if you suspect you have COVID-19, get tested; especially if you are in a vulnerable population at risk of severe illness. Third, if you are high-risk and test positive, immediately speak with your healthcare provider about the recommended course of action, which may include antiviral treatments. explore your vaccine options and talk to your healthcare provider about vaccination benefits and suitability for your personal circumstances. Proactive discussion with a healthcare provider is crucial for making informed choices aligned with your specific health needs.
Time.news: Dr. Sharma, thank you for your time and insight. your insights into Taiwan’s COVID-19 strategy and your advice on navigating misinformation are invaluable for our audience.
