Taipei—The bustling streets of Taipei have taken on a new appearance as the city grapples with a level-three COVID-19 alert, the island’s second-highest warning. The Taiwan region reported 286 new COVID-19 infections on Thursday, marking the sixth consecutive day of rising case numbers.
Schools across the city have been shuttered for 10 days, leaving classrooms empty and students adjusting to remote learning. Restaurants that once thrived on lively dine-in customers are now offering only take-away services, significantly altering the daily routines of residents.
CGTN contributor Xiaolin took to the main business districts, schools, and hospitals of Taipei to observe the impact of the alert on daily life. The typically crowded marketplaces and shopping centers are noticeably quieter, with many people adhering strictly to health guidelines and social distancing measures.
The heightened alert has prompted authorities to intensify testing and tracing efforts in an attempt to curb the spread of the virus. Hospitals are on high alert, implementing stringent protocols to manage the influx of patients and ensure the safety of healthcare workers.
For many residents, the sudden escalation in preventative measures serves as a stark reminder of the pandemic’s persistent threat. Community leaders are urging cooperation and resilience as Taipei navigates this challenging period.
The level-three alert is set to continue as officials assess the situation daily. In the meantime, the city remains in a state of cautious vigilance, hoping that collective efforts will soon lead to a decline in cases and a return to normalcy.
Reference(s):
What does Taipei look like under the COVID-19 level-three alert?
cgtn.com
