TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control on Tuesday reported 11,893 outpatient and emergency department visits for enterovirus infections last week (Nov. 16–22), a 3.9% increase from the previous week.

Nineteen severe enterovirus cases have been confirmed so far this year, including nine deaths, according to CDC data, per a press release. Lab data over the past four weeks found Coxsackievirus A16 to be the most common strain, followed by Coxsackievirus A6 and A5.

Kuo Hong-wei (郭宏偉), director of the CDC’s Epidemic Intelligence Center, said data show cases continue to rise. He urged the public to be alert to early signs of severe infection in infants and young children.

The CDC said the disease can progress rapidly in children under five, who face a higher risk of severe complications. If they exhibit prolonged fever or drowsiness, or limb weakness, they should see a doctor, the CDC said.

Enteroviruses spread easily in crowded environments such as homes, schools, after-school programs, childcare centers, and indoor playgrounds. The CDC advised avoiding crowded public spaces during outbreaks and keeping sick children at home to rest. 

Adults should change clothes after returning home and wash their hands thoroughly before handling infants. Families are encouraged to regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched items and toys, and keep indoor areas well-ventilated to reduce infection risks. 

The CDC added that alcohol is only moderately effective against enteroviruses; for routine disinfection, surfaces should be cleaned with a 500 ppm chlorine bleach solution (10 liters of water mixed with 100 milliliters of bleach).

Information on enterovirus prevention and control is available on the CDC’s website or via the toll-free hotline 1922 (or 0800-001922).