COVID-19, Flu Cases Rise in Kinmen; 2 Elders and 1 Child Die from Severe Complications

Kinmen County has reported a concerning rise in severe respiratory illnesses, with two elderly unvaccinated individuals succumbing to severe COVID-19 complications, including one death. The county's health bureau also confirmed two fatal cases of severe influenza, affecting a 79-year-old elder and a 9-year-old child.

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Kinmen County Health Bureau calls on the public to get vaccinated as soon as possible for COVID-19 and flu.

Authorities are emphasizing the urgency of vaccination, noting that the public COVID-19 vaccination program has been extended until September 28. After October 1, vaccinations will be administered to specific groups, similar to the flu vaccine policy. The bureau is appealing to all residents aged six months and older who have not completed their COVID-19 vaccination or are eligible for booster shots to get vaccinated promptly.

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If you experience symptoms such as sore throat, cough, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal discomfort, or temporary loss or dulling of smell and taste, you can use a home rapid test kit for self-testing, wear a mask, and seek medical attention early.

As of July 30, Kinmen has recorded two severe COVID-19 cases in individuals over 65 who had not received any COVID-19 vaccine. While one patient has recovered and been discharged, the other passed away. The health bureau advises residents experiencing symptoms like sore throat, cough, muscle aches, or gastrointestinal discomfort, including temporary loss or dulling of smell and taste, to use home rapid test kits and seek medical attention early. Rapid test kits are available at local health stations for those with suspected COVID-19 symptoms. Positive results for individuals with risk factors for severe illness may qualify them for free antiviral medication prescribed by a doctor.

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The mortality rate is as high as 15%, indicating that severe influenza complications not only carry a high risk of death but also do not exclusively occur in the elderly population; children and other individuals with weaker immunity are also high-risk targets for severe illness.

Regarding influenza, Kinmen has reported two severe cases by July 30, involving a 79-year-old elder and a 9-year-old child, both of whom tragically died. National statistics from the Centers for Disease Control show that among 434 severe flu cases nationwide, 49% were individuals aged 70 and above. Out of 68 deaths, the mortality rate reached 15%. This highlights that severe flu complications pose a high risk not only to the elderly but also to children and individuals with weakened immune systems. The bureau stressed that both COVID-19 and flu can lead to rapid deterioration due to complications, urging the public not to underestimate these illnesses. Kinmen County offers free COVID-19 and flu vaccinations at 13 contracted facilities, including five township health centers, the Ministry of Health and Welfare Kinmen Hospital, and several private clinics.

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Whether it is severe COVID-19 or influenza, observing the three deaths in Kinmen, the condition can rapidly worsen due to complications, and the public must not take it lightly.