Dear international students,
NHI card or ARC card is now required when purchasing surgical mask in Taiwan.
The surgical masks supplies are regulated by the government and we need to follow the instructions carefully.
What: Present your NHI card or ARC card when purchasing surgical masks
Where: NHI contracted pharmacies -> MAP
Tips: look for stores with Chinese characters read 藥/藥局/藥妝/藥粧 + NHI sign)
When: Based on the last digit of your ARC number:
odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9): Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays,
even numbers (0, 2, 4, 6, 8): Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays,
both allowed to make purchases on Sundays
Please note that consumers will be limited to buy only two masks per week (7 days).
2 masks = NT10
For details, please refer to:
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3871191
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3870428
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/index
https://focustaiwan.tw
This policy is subject to change per mask supply conditions.
Please be sure to follow the news and the website of CDC frequently:
https://www.cdc.gov.tw/En
https://focustaiwan.tw
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/
When do you need to wear a surgical mask? (reminder from Ministry of Health and Welfare):
When entering clinics and hospitals
When in close contact with patients (especially when inside confined space)
Person with respiratory symptoms
When person with chronic disease (low immune system) need to go outdoor (shopping, go to hospital…etc)
Do not hoard masks and do not panic!
Save the masks for those in urgent needs!
Please be reminded to wash your hands frequently with soap and refrain yourself from touching your eyes/nose/mouth before washing hands.
Posted by
Ms. Janet Chen
Division of International and Cross-Strait Services
Office of International Affairs, NCTU
