Category：Life

High-risk groups advised to avoid China travel amid surge in respiratory infections

Groups that are high-risk for respiratory diseases are urged to not visit China, amid a surge of illness across the strait. China is seeing a sharp rise in respiratory illness, including mycoplasma infections among children. There have been rumors of class suspensions due to outbreaks, and of pneumonia clusters in children’s hospitals. The Taiwan CDC says it’s closely monitoring developments at home and abroad. It says that so far in Taiwan, mycoplasma has yet to cause a major outbreak.

Here at this school classroom in China’s Liaoning province, half the students are absent, amid an outbreak of mycoplasma pneumonia. Photos taken at a hospital show children attached to IV drips, doing their homework. In Guangdong, one class was suspended altogether after more than a third of students developed fevers.

Voice of Chinese city official
The document released yesterday stated that we have entered the high-incidence period for respiratory infectious diseases.

China is grappling with a surge in respiratory infections. Among children aged 5 to 14, the infections mostly involve the seasonal flu, mycoplasma, and adenovirus. Adults are mostly immune to mycoplasma, but people aged 60 and up have been struck by pneumonia-causing viruses and cold-causing coronaviruses. Despite the severity of the outbreaks, Beijing authorities are said to have ordered a media blackout.

Voice of source in Beijing
We are not allowed to report on the worsening situation. We have to pretend it’s not happening.

With cases rising in China, Taiwan is on alert. A 7-year-old girl in Taiwan was diagnosed with mycoplasma pneumonia, after a cough and high fever lasted for six days. An X-ray showed a large white area on her right lung. Mild symptoms for mycoplasma infections include headache and fever, but in severe cases, patients need hospitalization or even intensive care. Despite concern over the pathogens, an expert says there is no need for widespread rapid testing.

Yang Kuang-yao
Taipei Veterans General Hospital
Patients are usually given empiric therapies. Doctors don’t wait for rapid test results to come out.

In Taiwan, doctor’s visits for flu-like symptoms have declined for the seventh consecutive week, with last week’s figure standing at 52,000. The CDC says the three main respiratory diseases spreading in Taiwan are the seasonal flu, adenovirus and parainfluenza viruses. Others are respiratory syncytial virus and COVID. So far, mycoplasma is not seeing a large number of cases. According to data from Linkou’s Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, the percentage of patients with mycoplasma is less than 1%, making it a minor concern.

Philip Lo
CDC deputy head
Mycoplasma has yet to cause a major outbreak. If there are cases with an unknown infection source, or cases with known sources but that display abnormal severe symptoms, or an increase in clinical rates, then we may take further steps to heighten public health policies.

With winter fast approaching, the CDC says it’s closely monitoring the spread of respiratory diseases, including mycoplasma. It warns vulnerable groups against traveling to China, and to get vaccinated against the flu and COVID.

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2023-11-28

Keelung breaks ground on first social housing project

Keelung has broken ground on its first social housing project. The Kuang Ming An Chu project is part of a government push to build 1,000 social housing units in Keelung. Construction is slated for completion in August 2027.

Lin Yu-chang
Interior minister
Today we’re here to break ground on construction. It’s a very happy occasion. A total of 449 units will be built, and the central government will invest NT$2.5 billion in Keelung. I think that this is a very heartening development. During my time as mayor of Keelung, we worked with the National Property Administration on this issue, and had discussions with the National Housing and Urban Regeneration Center. Currently there are three other development sites, for which planning is underway.

The Kuang Ming An Chu social housing complex is located in Qidu District, at the intersection of Guangming Road and Mingde 1st Road. It will boast easy access to transport and amenities like a child care center and a day care for adults with disabilities. A percentage of the units will be reserved for disadvantaged households. A percentage will also be used as house police and firefighters assigned to Keelung from out of town.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-28

Milder, wetter winter expected due to El Nino: CWA

As we head into December, cold waves are moving in, one after the next. This Thursday, another wave of strong northeasterlies will sweep in, taking temperatures as low as 15 degrees in central and northern Taiwan. Looking ahead at this winter’s forecast, the Central Weather Administration predicts a mild season. Temperatures are set to be warmer than normal, due to a moderate El Nino weather pattern. Wetter-than-average conditions are also expected in some parts of Taiwan.

Taiwan saw overcast to sunny skies islandwide on Tuesday. Temperatures are expected to rise the following day, before a cold front brings chilly, damp weather to the north.

Wu Wan-hua
CWA forecaster
On Thursday, Friday and all the way to Sunday, temperatures in the north will be significantly lower. The north, northeast, and the east, as well as the outlying islands of Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, will see day-night temperature swings of just about 4 to 5 degrees. But in central and southern Taiwan, the difference will still be about 10 degrees. We expect the lowest temperatures from Friday night to Saturday morning.

On Thursday, strengthening northeasterlies will bring down temperatures islandwide. Kinmen and Matsu will see lows of 13 to 14 degrees. In central, northern, and northeastern Taiwan, the mercury will sink to 15 degrees, while other regions will remain at around 18 to 19 degrees. Besides the drop in temperature, the northeasterlies will also bring increased moisture. Expect brief localized showers in windward areas of Taoyuan, north of Taoyuan and in the eastern half. Other areas of Taiwan will see overcast to sunny skies.

This fall season, only four typhoons formed over the Northern Pacific Ocean. That’s a significant drop from the average of 10.87, and the lowest number since 1958. This coming winter, Taiwan is likely to see normal to warm temperatures and average to above-average rainfall due to a moderate El Nino weather pattern.

Chen Yi-liang
CWA forecaster
For December, January, and February, the likelihood of high temps is on a downward trend, but is still quite high overall. As for rain, there are no clear signs for December. But in January and February, many areas of Taiwan are expected to receive above-average rainfall.

A mild winter is ahead, but cold waves are still likely to bring sudden temperature drops. The public is advised to watch the forecast to be prepared.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2023-11-28

Cancer survivors celebrate recovery with round-the-island cycle ride

A group of cancer survivors have celebrated their recovery with a round-the-island cycle ride. The 51 cyclists made the impressive 1,100-kilometer ride over 10 days. Their aim was to promote exercise as a way to recover from the impacts of cancer and chemotherapy. One cyclist also donated her long hair, grown over four years, to charity, with the wish that another cancer patient will make a full recovery like she has.

One by one, the successful cyclists mark their return. This cyclist lifts her bike in triumph. And this cyclist vowed to donate the jet-black hair she’s been growing for four years, to mark the completion of her wish.

The snip of the scissors symbolizes her successful recovery from cancer. She wants her recovery to “influence life with life.”

Hsu Wei-han
Hair donor and cancer survivor
When my chemotherapy ended, I started growing my hair. When I look at my hair, it feels like I’ve been reborn. So I made a wish that they can finish their cancer therapy successfully.

Cancer has been a common struggle for all these cyclists. Fifty-one people from all over Taiwan set out from Taipei on a 10-day, 1,100-kilometer round-the-island ride. They rode come rain or shine, braving long days, long distances, and steep climbs aplenty. The organizer of the event hopes the ride will encourage more cancer survivors to widen their horizons and beat cancer back with physical exercise.

Wu Hsing-chuan
Taiwan Cancer Society founding director
For cancer survivors, movement is life. That’s my guiding principle. Beat cancer with exercise, keep it at bay.

The end of the race is the start of a whole new chapter for these cyclists, who are courageously turning over a new leaf after cancer.

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2023-11-27

Meet Miss Asia USA Tiffany Chang, who’s on a mission to promote Taiwan

And now for an exclusive with the 35th Miss Asia USA, Tiffany Chang. The 20-year-old Taiwanese American won the crown and four other awards in California this month. In a video call with FTV, she spoke about her roots and her mission to bring greater global awareness to Taiwan.

Outshining a competitor representing China, Taiwan’s Tiffany Chang won the title of Miss Asia USA. The 20-year-old Stanford student entered the pageant to promote Taiwan as an independent country. Born and raised in the U.S., Chang says a love for Taiwan runs in her family.

Tiffany Chang
Miss Asia USA
I spent all my afternoons, every single day with my A-ma. And my father always expressed his love for Taiwan. I didn’t really resonate with that deeply until my involvement with Miss Taiwanese American. During our training we learned a lot about our history and our culture.

In 2022, Chang was crowned Miss Taiwanese America. After learning more about Taiwan’s history and culture, she became more vocal in her support of the country and began participating in Taiwan-U.S. events. Earlier this year, Chang attended a banquet for Vice President Lai Ching-te in San Francisco. She even snapped a photo of herself with Lai and his now-running mate Hsiao Bi-khim. Chang says Hsiao is dedicated and approachable.

Tiffany Chang
Miss Asia USA
I had also previously met ambassador Hsiao in Northern California. Early October, I attended the FAPA conference, and when I was there she recognized me, and even said, “Oh, we meet again,” which highlighted our connection. Ambassador Hsiao’s dedication and also her accomplishments has always served sort of like an inspiration for me. She takes on this new role as the VP candidate, I want to also extend my heartfelt wishes.

Chang says Hsiao’s contributions to Taiwan have inspired her to push forward. As a Taiwanese American, Chang says she’s aware of the struggles that Taiwan faces internationally.

Tiffany Chang
Miss Asia USA
The situation at hand is difficult to deal with. It’s important for us to use our platform to continue to speak up about bringing awareness to Taiwan.

The 20-year-old says she’s devoted to Taiwan, and hopes to continue to show support in her own unique way.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-27

Taiwan on guard as Northern China sees a rise in respiratory infections among children

China has seen a sharp rise in respiratory infections affecting children for five consecutive weeks, and hospitals there are struggling to keep up. The U.S.’ Ambassador to Japan took to social media over the weekend to comment about the outbreak, urging China to be transparent to avoid another global pandemic. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s CDC has stepped up measures at the country’s ports of entry.

Hospitals in China are being inundated with children suffering pneumonia-like conditions. A surge in cases has left hospital waiting rooms so crowded that children are forced to sit on the floor, and parents are gripped by fear.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel took to social media platform X and called on China to work with the international community and to share information on the outbreak in a timely manner, saying that doing so was crucial to saving lives.

Philip Lo
Taiwan Centers for Disease Control
The Taiwan CDC has already instructed the country’s international airports and seaports to raise the alert level. Signboards at quarantine stations are displaying notices for arrivals from China, Hong Kong and Macau, reminding them to monitor their health conditions.

The CDC fears that the wave of infections in China could lead to a new global pandemic. The outbreak of respiratory tract infections in northern China has seen cases rise for five consecutive weeks now, with case numbers higher than in the same period over the past three years. So far the outbreak has mainly affected children, and has involved six main virus types including Mycoplasma, RSV, adenovirus, influenza and COVID-19. Taiwanese who travel to China are being reminded to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and the flu.

Lo Yuan-chang
Pediatrician
It definitely helps. After the damage caused by the flu, there will be some miscellaneous bacteria in the respiratory tract. If another infection occurs, it will be an infection of two or three types of bacteria or viruses at the same time. As there are few vaccines left, you may want to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Those who seek medical treatment for flu-like conditions are asked to inform their physician of their travel history. If traveling to China, people are advised to wash their hands frequently and wear a mask.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2023-11-27

Older resident of Yilan revitalizes her community with a sewing school

An older resident of Yilan has revitalized her community with a sewing school. Huang-hsieh Jung-feng was going through a rough patch some years ago, after experiencing kidney disease. But she happened to get close to the leader of the town council, who encouraged her to start teaching sewing. Now, the class helps many older and younger people build up their confidence, express their creativity, and find new outlets for their imagination. To date they’ve made more than 2,000 bags, the proceeds of which go to charity. And the ecofriendly bags are even made of upcycled clothing.

Sewing students press down the pedals, and their fabric inches up the table. Each stitch is given the utmost care.

Each one of them is making an ecofriendly bag. All of these items were made by older members of Hanmin community, and the pillar of the project is Huang-hsieh Jung-feng.

Huang-hsieh Jung-feng
Sewing teacher
I didn’t feel well, so I went for a walk, and I bumped into the former head of the township, Lin Zi-miao. She’s now the county commissioner. And I met the secretary general. And they were very solicitous. I had had my kidney taken out and I didn’t have any energy.

But Huang-hsieh took her destiny into her own hands, with the help of her friend in politics.

Huang-hsieh Jung-feng
Sewing teacher
I really want to thank our county commissioner. You know? I’m in such good health now, and she’s the one who has always encouraged me, and taken care of me. Without her encouragement, I wouldn’t be here today.

Lin Zi-miao
Yilan county commissioner
I’m grateful to my sister for teaching everyone, young and old, always guiding her students. The county government wants older people to be able to live healthy, exciting, happy lives. That’s our goal.

Members of the class took part in a fashion show to show off their beautiful creations. The Hanmin community sewing school didn’t just help Huang-hsieh, it also helped many other older people to center themselves again.

Lin Tsang-tsai
Yilan County Social Affairs Department head
We’re using local assets, like all the sewing machines we have, to enable older people to regain their old confidence. And these things are familiar to them. They make patchwork ecofriendly bags, and they can rival Louis Vuitton.

The students use recycled clothes in their projects, and auction or sell their creations for charity, donating the proceeds to social welfare foundations. Huang-hsieh and her team of volunteers are using their hands and their creativity to do the heart’s work.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-27

Tainan looking to restore historic Tsui Hsien Ko building

At the intersection of Jhongjheng and Simen roads in Tainan is a noticeably dilapidated structure. The facade concealing it was recently removed, drawing attention to its history. Built during the Japanese era, the building used to house the famous restaurant Tsui Hsien Ko. For a while, the Tainan Chamber of Commerce leased it to a watch retailer, but now that the store is gone, some are calling for its renovation.

A derelict building at the busy intersection of Jhongjheng and Simen roads maintains the hallmarks of classic architecture, and even some of its original paint. It clearly has a story, which some are urging to be told.

Sung Chun-ming
Tainan Chamber of Commerce director
Many places like Pao Mei Lou and the Hayashi Department Store have been restored. Since we hold another valuable piece of our heritage, I think it should be preserved for future generations.

Chen Yi-chen
Tainan City councilor (DPP)
It looks a bit decrepit now. The Cultural Affairs Bureau should help investigate how to restore it.

Owned by the Tainan Chamber of Commerce, the Japanese-era building originally housed the famous restaurant Tsui Hsien Ko. For a while it was rented out to a watch retailer, which ended its lease this year. The facade has now been removed, revealing its original appearance.

Hsieh Shih-yuan
Tainan Cultural Affairs Bureau director
We will negotiate with the chamber of commerce, then work to preserve this important historical site for the city throughout its reconstruction.

Tsui Hsien Ko has moved a few times in its history. It stayed at its original location until 1932, serving as a gathering place for Tainan’s social and political elite. It was also popular for serving local cuisine.

Wu Kun-lin
Tsui Hsien Ko inheritor
Restaurants like this used to be high-crust establishments where the elite, businessmen and officials would gather and spend money.

Old photographs show how Tsui Hsien Ko used to look. The bureau had considered restoring it before, but never had the chance. Now that the structure has been unveiled, it hopes to seize the opportunity to restore it to its original splendor.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-27

Owners of big bikes protest at transport ministry to demand more road use rights

There are many motorcycles in Taiwan, but they’re mostly light motorcycles and scooters. Big bikes, which are motorcycles with a displacement of 250cc or higher, are still a small minority in Taiwan’s motorcycle world. Now big bike owners are demanding more rights, such as the right to get on the national freeways. On Sunday afternoon, more than 300 big bike owners staged a protest by surrounding the transportation ministry.

In addition to demanding the right to ride on national freeways, the bikers also wanted to be able to park in regular motorcycle parking spaces, be able to make a left turn without having to make the two-point turn at intersections, and be allowed to ride on the inside lane. Taiwan’s Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act was amended in 2012, allowing motorcycles with a displacement of more than 550cc on freeways, but since the amendment, the government has only allowed big bikes on Freeway 3A.

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2023-11-26

Newborns contract Legionnaires’ disease for first time in 10 years

Legionnaires’ disease, a serious form of pneumonia, has been reported among newborns for the first time in 10 years. The Taiwan CDC says that four infants contracted it between this February and October. The cases were all reported from different hospitals, but they involved the same bacterial strain. All four infants have since been discharged from the hospital.

Legionnaires’ disease can be contracted by drinking water containing the Legionella bacteria. In the four cases reported this year, the source of infection is suspected to be water dispensers or water faucets. On Friday, the Taiwan CDC urged regular cleaning and disinfection of water systems. It said that when preparing baby formula, it’s best to use water that’s been boiled and then cooled, to avoid risks associated with unboiled water.

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2023-11-24