News Release from the SARS Contingency Committee (2003/6/30)

DOH - Executive Yuan Jun. 30, 2003 - 0930

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1. Unanimous decision at the meeting with APEC Health ministers was achieved. All countries are to work together to combat SARS and other infectious diseases.

(1)Represented by the director of the Department of Health, Chen Chien-jen and the director of the Department for the Prevention of infectious diseases, Su Yi-Ren, Taiwan appeared for a meeting with the APEC Health ministers and other high level officials, and successfully shared with the world Taiwan's experience in the fight against SARS. Representatives from Taiwan suggested that an Asia-Pacific epidemic information telecommunication center be established to provide online reports. It was also suggested that an APEC Health task force be established. Both suggestions were welcomed by approval from the majority of the committee.

(2)The Director of infectious diseases for the WHO made two conclusions about the worldwide SARS situation at the meeting with APEC Health ministers and other high officials The first being that although SARS control in every area has been carried out excellently, and that shouldn't be any further cases of scattered outbreaks, there is still no way to be certain, and every country should continue to be monitored. The second conclusion made was that there is currently already sufficient evidence to prove that there is a type of coronary virus present in wild animals from the Guang-Dong province of China. It is hoped that China can come up with a clear and effective prevention strategy.

(3)A group statement was produced after the close of the meeting saying that all Asia-Pacific countries should work together to combat SARS and similar infectious diseases. It was also decided that health officials from each country should be responsible for strengthening online monitoring of infectious diseases. In addition it was agreed to consider establishment of APEC health task forces, and addition of an online communication forum for officials and experts. In October of this year, an APEC international seminar is to be held in Taiwan. At that time, research from each country will already have had concrete results, which will aid in the case of the next wave of outbreaks.

(4)In addition, Taiwan also proposed to train infection control experts. For this, onsite visits, as well as previous experience with outbreaks and control thereof would be provided as learning materials. This proposal was met with strong approval from committee members, who enthusiastically agreed to participate in this plan.

2. Rules for Revision of Overseas Control Measures
Due to information provided by the WHO stating that 70% of SARS cases from mainland China were of unknown causes, the prevention committee decided to take strict measures, and delay removal of China from the list of infected countries for a time of one full incubation period (10 days). It was also decided that regulations pertaining to people from mainland China coming to Taiwan, or for Taiwanese nationals returning home remain the same until June 4th. But it is still necessary for Taiwanese nationals returning home to take measures to protect their own health.