TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Centers for Disease Control reported on Tuesday that from May 18 to 24, there were 41,402 outpatient and emergency visits for COVID, a 113% increase from the previous week.

CDC Spokesperson Lo Yi-chun (羅一鈞) said cases have been rising for seven consecutive weeks, with weekly increases exceeding 70%, per CNA. While part of the surge is due to increased testing, Lo said the primary driver is the spread.

The NB.1.8.1 subvariant is driving the current wave. The CDC predicts the peak will arrive in late June or early July, with weekly visits possibly hitting 150,000–200,000. The outbreak may not subside until late July or early August. 

To help prevent infections, Lo advised wearing masks in healthcare facilities, public transport, or crowded indoor spaces. People with fevers and respiratory symptoms should also wear masks when going out.