The Commander of the US Amry Reserve, Lt. Colonel Alejandro Buniag has extended support to Governor Lolo Moliga and the Coronavirus Task Force. Speaking at Sunday’s Task Force meeting he said the Army Reserve stands ready to provide whatever support is needed.
Lt Colonel Buniag congratulated Governor Lolo, the Task Force and the people of American Samoa for being the fact that American Samoa is the only part of the US which remains COVID-19 free.
During discussion on quarantine facilities that would be available when the borders are reopened, Lt. Colonel Buniag was asked about the possibility of using the Army Reserve Center as an alternate site.
He gave this response.
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Governor Lolo has instructed that the two buildings being constructed behind the Tafuna Heath Center to be used as quarantine facilities must be complete and ready for use by June 30.
Director of Public Works Faleosina Voigt said the first building is more than 90% completed but there’s a change order for the addition of nursing quarters. The second one is awaiting materials and supplies, but she expects it to be completed by next month.
The governor also instructed that furniture and equipment for the buildings must be purchased.
With the Leone Health Center, the VA Center and the DWYA Center in Pago Pago, the governor figures we can now quarantine up to 300 people. He said that’s enough for one full load of passengers on Hawaiian Air.
Lolo added that facilities of the Catholic Church at Fatuoaiga and the CCCAS Kanana Fou would also be used, but only when the government facilities are full.
He has instructed the medical group to have a firm policy on those needing to be quarantined when flights resume.
The governor said it’s his understanding that everyone entering the territory must be quarantined at these centers, not some at the centers and others at home.
Director of Health Motusa Tuileama Nua commented that people may not find the DYWA Center comfortable as they would be using cots and there’s no air conditioning.
