The Central Epidemic Command Center placed a level three travel advisory, the highest possible, on a further 43 countries and territories March 16 in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19 in Taiwan.
Given the pandemic’s continuing escalation, the CECC now advises against unnecessary travel to 34 countries and territories in Asia and the Middle East, 37 in Europe and five in North Africa.
Upon entry to Taiwan, travelers who have visited these destinations in the past 14 days must undergo self-quarantine for two weeks and report to authorities if they develop respiratory symptoms. Failure to comply with instructions can lead to a fine of up to NT$1,000,000 (US$33,063).
The CECC employs a three-tier system for advising travelers. Visitors to a level one area should follow relevant disease-fighting measures adopted by local authorities. This has been extended to the entire world except those countries and territories subject to a level two or three advisory.
Travelers to level two advisory areas—currently Japan, Singapore and the U.S. states of California, New York and Washington—are urged to take enhanced precautions against COVID-19.
Individuals who have visited countries subject to a level one or two advisory must observe 14 days of self-health management upon arriving in Taiwan. This includes checking body temperature twice daily and wearing a surgical mask in public.
According to a March 17 announcement by the CECC, effective March 19 Japan, Singapore and the three U.S. states, as well as 17 other countries and territories will be elevated to level three advisory areas. All other U.S. states are placed on level two advisory.
Latest statistics by the CECC reveal 77 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Taiwan as of March 17, with one death. A total of 80,881 cases have been identified in China and 98,630 in 143 other countries and territories. (SFC-E)
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