Taoyuan steps up dengue fever prevention measures

桃園加強登革熱預防措施

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taoyuan's Department of Environmental Protection said Monday it has stepped up epidemic-prevention measures after four domestic dengue cases were reported, per UDN.

Authorities established 200-meter hot zones around confirmed cases and conducted vehicle- and crew-based chemical disinfection. Volunteer patrols removed breeding sites such as buckets, tires, and other water-holding trash.

EPB Director Yen Chi-liang (顏己喨) said dengue is spread by mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water, including the bottoms of flower pots and discarded bottles and cans. A second line of defense involves volunteers patrolling alleyways every two days to clear potential breeding spots.

Since Sept. 24, the EPB has deployed 12 disinfection vehicles and 38 chemical-control personnel. About 14,600 people have participated in patrols and cleanups, removing 18,700 kilograms of waste.

Taoyuan officials said they hope the stepped-up measures will eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and curb further spread.