TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan recorded its 11th confirmed measles case this year after an imported infection led to a secondary local transmission, the Centers for Disease Control said Tuesday.
They said the latest cluster involves a foreign woman in her 30s who traveled to Taiwan in mid-May and a male contact in his 20s from northern Taiwan. The woman developed fever, cough, rhinitis, and a rash three days after entering Taiwan, later seeking medical treatment and testing positive for measles, per a press release.
The second case was identified as a close contact of the woman. During the monitoring period, he developed symptoms including cough, fever, rash, and was subsequently confirmed to have measles. Health authorities have identified 491 contacts linked to the two cases, with monitoring continuing through June 16.
The CDC said measles cases this year have involved individuals ranging in age from under 1 year old to over 50. Three cases were locally transmitted, and eight were imported from Vietnam, Malaysia, the US, India, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Japan, and Thailand.
Health authorities said the global measles outbreak continues to worsen. Japan has reported 511 cases so far this year, nearly double the 265 cases recorded in all of 2024. Bangladesh is also experiencing a major outbreak, with more than 70,000 suspected cases reported, while countries across Southeast Asia continue to export infections internationally.
The CDC warns that measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air. Individuals identified as contacts of confirmed cases are urged to strictly follow health monitoring and protective measures.
Health officials warned that contacts who fail to comply with self-health management requirements may face fines ranging from NT$60,000 (US$2,000) to NT$300,000.
Parents are encouraged to ensure children receive vaccinations on schedule. Adults born in 1966 or later who plan to travel to areas experiencing measles outbreaks are advised to consult a physician two to four weeks before departure to determine whether an MMR booster is recommended.
Health authorities advised travelers to maintain good hand hygiene, avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth, and wear masks when appropriate. Travelers who develop symptoms after returning to Taiwan should notify airport quarantine officials and cooperate with health assessments.
