To Prevent Enterovirus, Minister Cheng Ying-yao Urges Hand Washing, Disinfection, and Staying Home When Sick

(Central News Agency, Taipei, 5th) The period from late May to June is the peak season for enterovirus outbreaks. Minister of Education Cheng Ying-yao visited kindergartens in New Taipei City today to inspect their epidemic prevention preparations, calling for the implementation of hand washing, environmental disinfection, and the concept of "staying home when sick."

Cheng visited Banqiao Kindergarten and Xinyue Non-Profit Kindergarten in New Taipei City, interacting with teachers and children, sharing epidemic prevention knowledge, and practicing the correct hand-washing steps: "wet, rub, rinse, cup, wipe," and the seven hand-rubbing actions: "inside, outside, between fingers, knuckles, thumbs, fingertips, wrists."

Cheng pointed out that summer is the season when enterovirus is prevalent. Enteroviruses are highly contagious, mainly spreading through the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, or contact with the secretions of infected individuals. They are particularly prone to spreading in kindergartens, after-school care centers, and households. The best prevention methods are "correct and frequent hand washing" and "using bleach for environmental disinfection."

The Ministry of Education stated that the five key prevention tips for enterovirus are: "wash hands frequently, get enough sleep, clean toys, prioritize hygiene, and seek medical attention promptly." In recent years, the Ministry has continuously subsidized kindergartens to improve teaching environments and facilities. In the year 115 of the Republic of China (2026), it will subsidize 1,235 kindergartens with NT$15.8 billion.

The Ministry of Education stated that in addition to enriching equipment and improving the environment, it also supports frontline preschool educators in continuously enhancing the quality of education through various improvement plans. Facing the peak season of enterovirus, it calls on parents, teachers, and students to jointly implement epidemic prevention and work together to protect children's health. (Editor: Guan Zhongwei) 1150605