The Cabinet-level Central Epidemic Command Center issued new border control and community disease prevention measures Nov. 18 as the government implements plans to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Taiwan this winter.
Given the worsening pandemic situation in many parts of the world, the CECC said beginning Dec. 1 until Feb. 28, 2021, all airline passengers entering or transiting in Taiwan must present a negative real-time polymerase chain reaction test for COVID-19 issued within three working days prior to boarding the flight to the country.
The new rule applies to all individuals regardless of nationality or travel purpose, the CECC said, adding that noncompliance will result in a fine of between NT$10,000 (US$348) and NT$150,000, with those falsifying their results subject to criminal investigation. All arrivals must still undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine after entering Taiwan, the CECC added.
Furthermore, masks will be made mandatory at eight types of indoor venues: exhibition sites, education facilities, government agencies, medical facilities, performance venues, public transportation, places of worship and shopping centers. Violators will be fined between NT$3,000 and NT$15,000.
With regard to mass gatherings at outdoor locations such as amusement parks, market places and tourist attractions, people are urged to maintain social distancing and wear a mask if unable to do so. Organizers should also set maximum attendance limits and take necessary precautions to comply with government guidelines, the CECC said.
The agency is also upping disease control measures at medical facilities including enhanced case reporting, in-depth health monitoring for medical staffers and more rigorous patient screening.
Taiwan has successfully managed the coronavirus pandemic to date thanks to the public’s cooperation and the tireless efforts by frontline personnel around the country, the CECC said. Each individual has responsibility for continuing this good work by complying with the new measures, it added. (SFC-E)
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