Health agency urges caution during pilgrimageBy Lo Pi and Jonathan Chin / Staff reporter, with staff writerThe Health Promotion Administration has issued safety guidelines for endurance marching as a record-breaking 460,000 people embarked on the annual Baishatun Matsu pilgrimage starting last night. The agency urged people to protect themselves against inhalation of toxic fumes from incense and fireworks, heat exhaustion, and risks of dehydration and malnourishment. Those with chronically high blood pressure, blood sugar or blood lipid levels should undergo medical checkups to ensure they are fit before the undertaking, and carry their medicines at all times, it said. Sunstroke and heat exhaustion are prevented by wearing protective clothing and proper hydration, and water should be consumed at regular intervals, not only when thirsty, it said. People taking part in the pilgrimage should layer clothes to provide proper insulation and the flexibility to adjust to various temperatures, the agency said.

Source: Taipei Times April 12, 2026 17:15 UTC