Health officials say Taiwan's latest COVID-19 wave may have peaked earlier
than expected.

The Centers for Disease Control says outpatient and emergency visits hit just
over 70-thousand last week—a 9.3% rise from the week before, but a slower
rate of growth compared to earlier in the outbreak.

CDC spokesperson Lo Yi-chun credits the easing trend to increased
mask-wearing during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday period.

He also noted that reduced school activity during final exams and graduation
week likely helped cut transmission among teens.

He said the outbreak could subside one to two weeks earlier than the
previously projected end date of August 9th.

This summer's wave is also about half the size of last year's, easing
pressure on emergency rooms.

Still, officials warn that a mild summer may set the stage for a stronger
autumn wave.

(IG)