Nurse

Tiara Tuulua, a mother of two was working extra hours and camping at the hospital since 20 March 2022.

In a Facebook post Tuula said, “Every journey comes to an end.”

“On the 18th of March 2022 a community outbreak of COVID in Samoa. From then, it was my last time seeing my family.

“Today mark 42 days (6 weeks) since I have been away from my kids and family so I decided to visit my family especially my dearest children they have been waiting for 42 days.”

The nurse, who has not been named, was due to appear in court yesterday after last week being charged with manslaughter, conspiracy to defeat the course of justice, and negligence.

The babies died last month soon after receiving their vaccination for measles, mumps and rubella at a clinic in Savai'i, prompting the government to halt the country's vaccination programme.

The case has been referred to the Supreme Court, where the nurse will appear on 27 August.

The police investigation continues.

The nurse has already been charged with conspiracy to defeat the course of justice and negligence.

RNZ Pacific understands police filed the manslaughter charge last Friday against the nurse who is still in custody.

The nurse will appear in the district court tomorrow but it's likely the matter will be referred to the Supreme Court.

Meanwhile the head of the Samoa Nurses' Association said she would visit the nurse who faces the charges.