Taiwan Grapples with Rare Fatal Enterovirus Outbreak

A decade's first death from Coxsackie B5 sparks health concerns and heightened vigilance.

Taipei, Taiwan - The island nation is facing a renewed health challenge as the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announces the first fatality from Coxsackie B5 enterovirus in a decade. The tragic event involves a 1-year-old boy from southern Taiwan who succumbed to complications in early March.

CDC Spokesman Lo Yi-chun (羅一鈞) detailed the case during a press conference. The young patient initially presented with fever and respiratory symptoms. His condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to seizures and loss of consciousness. Despite receiving intensive care for acute encephalitis, the boy’s condition worsened, and he passed away within six days of illness.

This unfortunate event also marks Taiwan’s third enterovirus-related death this year and the first severe Coxsackie B5 infection of 2025, according to Lo.

While Coxsackie B5 typically manifests with mild symptoms, such as fever, cough, mouth ulcers, and blisters on the hands and feet, severe complications are relatively uncommon. However, this recent case underscores the unpredictable nature of the virus.

CDC data reveals that since 2014, Taiwan has recorded only eight severe cases of Coxsackie B5 infection, including the most recent fatality. This new case raises serious concerns regarding the current situation.

Adding to the concern, Lo pointed out that in the first three months of this year, Taiwan has already reported four severe enterovirus cases, including three deaths. Despite the overall outbreak remaining at a relatively low level, the sporadic emergence of severe cases highlights the persistent threat.

With the expected rise in temperatures in April, enterovirus activity is anticipated to increase significantly. Lo warned that this year's outbreak could potentially be more severe than in previous years.

The CDC is urging parents, particularly those with children under two years old, to prioritize strict hygiene practices and remain vigilant for early warning signs of severe infection. These signs include persistent vomiting, drowsiness, muscle twitching, or difficulty breathing.