Samoa’s Director General of Health, Leausa Dr Take Naseri has reiterated calls on the public to get their children vaccinated against measles.
In an interview with Tala Fou TV1 Samoa, Leausa said they have to improve coverage and if people are unsure whether their children are vaccinated then they should get them vaccinated.
There have been 3 deaths related to measles, 15 confirmed cases and 314 suspected cases of measles since an epidemic was declared in Samoa early October..
Leausa said the ministry had to modify operations including closing some General Outpatient services to mobilise staff to focus on the epidemic.
He added that the ministry has given its priority needs to New Zealand to assist with the current outbreak in Samoa.
According to the head of public health in Samoa, Dr Robert Thomsen, Samoa had asked New Zealand for medical supplies and also for nurses who were competent to vaccinate, had experience caring for children, and who could volunteer their time.
A measles epidemic was declared in Samoa about three weeks ago, after it was spread from New Zealand where there is an outbreak in the Auckland area.
Experts say measles is the most highly contagious disease known to man and can cause serious illness, disability and death.
Photo TV 1 Samoa Caption: Samoa’s Director General of Health, Leausa Dr Take Naseri