TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) will hold discussions later this month on lifting the mask mandate for medical institutions — after being in effect for more than 1,000 days,
As the world transitions into a post-pandemic era coexisting with COVID-19, Taiwan has been gradually easing its mask regulations, with only medical facilities still requiring them. The CDC said Friday (April 19) that a panel of experts will convene by the end of this month to discuss further relaxation measures, reported CNA.
Since Dec. 1, 2020, Taiwan has mandated mask-wearing at eight major venues, with medical facilities being one of them. Despite the gradual lifting of restrictions elsewhere, the requirement to wear masks in medical facilities remains in place.
However, neighboring countries like Singapore significantly relaxed mask-wearing regulations starting from March 1 this year. Except for areas such as hospital wards, emergency rooms, nursing homes, and care facilities, visitors and staff entering hospitals and clinics are no longer required to wear masks.
CDC Spokesperson Tseng Shu-hui (曾淑慧) said during a press briefing on Friday the agency will continue to reference international practices. Tseng said that by the end of April, the CDC will convene a meeting to discuss ending the mask mandate at medical institutions and elderly care facilities.
Tseng said that until the mask mandate is revised, hospitals should maintain appropriate patient flow management and clinic visit procedures. Clear signage should be posted and visitors to medical facilities should wear masks.
Measures should also be in place to help patients who are not wearing masks to wear one during their visit, said Tseng.
