The Central Epidemic Command Center says there has not been a surge of Taiwanese going to China to get COVID vaccines. Speaking at a Tuesday press conference, CECC deputy chief Chen Tsung-yen said that so far this month, daily outbound traffic to China has stayed steady at levels seen in April. His remarks came after China’s Taiwan Affairs Council announced that 62,000 Taiwanese had gotten COVID shots in China.
This year, the day after Dragon Boat Festival happened to coincide with Police Day. During his morning press briefing, Chen expressed appreciation for Taiwan’s police. He also urged local governments to stay vigilant against COVID, even as the spread appears to abate.
Chen Tsung-yen
CECC deputy chief
In greater Taipei, the epidemic is gradually slowing down. But some cities and counties outside of greater Taipei are still asked to pay close attention to their pandemic developments. Especially as the human movement and other risk factors pick up after Dragon Boat Festival, we need to pay close attention to changes that happen in the next two weeks.
In a video circulating online, a child said to be from Taiwan holds a PRC flag and touts China-made vaccines. China’s Taiwan Affairs Council says 62,000 Taiwanese had been vaccinated in China. On Tuesday, Chen said there’s been no recent rise in air traffic from Taiwan to China.
Chen Tsung-yen
CECC deputy chief
Our observation is that there has been no real increase. In June, the daily volume of outbound traffic has remained in the range seen in April, between 400 and 600 people.
Chen also addressed false information circulating on social media over AstraZeneca vaccines. Chen said it wasn’t true that older adults should avoid the AstraZeneca shot due to the risk of blood clotting.
Chen Tsung-yen
CECC deputy chief
Regarding age restrictions, there are restrictions only on the use of the shot on those under 18 years old. There are no restrictions on its use among older adults. This guidance for vaccine recipients has been clearly stated by advisory panel experts.
Chen said AZ was safe for people 75 and older, and will next be offered to those between 65 and 74. He also urged older adults against believing disinformation on social media.