Infrared thermometers scan visitors’ body temperatures at the entrance of National Palace Museum in Taipei City as a precaution during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Courtesy of NPM)

The Central Epidemic Command Center March 25 advised organizers to halt large-scale indoor and outdoor events—those with more than 100 and 500 people, respectively—to contain the spread of coronavirus in Taiwan.
 
Events with large crowds often require people to sit or stand in close proximity for extended periods, creating a dangerous environment that heightens the risk of disease transmission, the CECC said.
 
Given the increasing number of confirmed cases in Taiwan, the CECC added, event organizers should conduct risk assessments based on six indicators stated in the center’s Guidelines for Large-Scale Public Gatherings issued March 5.
 
These include whether organizers can obtain attendees’ details beforehand and ensure they practice good hand hygiene and wear surgical masks throughout, as well as the quality of air ventilation and overall duration of the event.
 
Following the CECC directive, Taipei City-based National Palace Museum announced that the number of visitors to its main facility and southern branch in Chiayi County will be limited to 100 at a time until further notice.
 
NPM also said all visitors will be asked to remain 1.5 meters apart, with a designated waiting area set up if the maximum number of individuals allowed is reached.
 
Latest statistics from the CECC reveal 252 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Taiwan as of March 26, with two deaths. A total of 455,501 cases have been identified in 175 other countries and territories. (SFC-E)