Taipei: Taipei will launch a second round of citywide sanitation measures and introduce "rodent control specialists" to help residents address rodent problems at home, Mayor Chiang Wan-an announced. Households will be able to apply for specialists to assess infestations and provide tailored prevention and control advice, he stated at a news conference.

According to Focus Taiwan, the move follows recent social media posts reporting rat sightings, raising public concern. However, the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control mentioned there is no indication of increased disease risk. CDC data shows Taiwan recorded 45 hantavirus cases since 2017, with two cases reported this year, consistent with recent years.

Chiang emphasized a coordinated, cross-agency approach to strengthen prevention, inspection, and sanitation, while urging residents to remain calm. Officials indicated that the specialists will focus on identifying infestation sources, improving environmental conditions, and supporting effective household pest control.

The city plans to tighten sanitation at markets by installing mesh in drains, sealing building gaps, and improving waste handling. Subsidies will be offered for grease traps, followed by inspections. The Department of Urban Development noted that pest control reports will be required before demolition begins on old buildings, with updates every six months during projects. Additionally, large commercial venues and restaurants must complete rodent prevention measures before receiving renovation permits.