Final Covid tests for group in quarantine all negative

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All final Covid tests were negative for the travelers in quarantine at Tradewinds Hotel and Sadies by the Sea. They will be released this morning according to Director of Health Motusa Tuileama Nua.

Arriving on the September 27th HAL flight they have been in quarantine for 14 days.

Meanwhile two travelers from that flight who tested positive for coronavirus on their first test since arrival and three who were exposed to them are still in isolation.

Motusa happily told KHJ News that the group in quarantine at the two hotels will be able to go home this morning.

During the joint Fono hearing with the Covid-19 Task Force last Wednesday, questions were raised regarding the capability of the testing company that American Samoa is using to conduct Covid tests in Honolulu.

Medicaid American Samoa is footing the bill for the two Covid tests that travelers to the territory must undergo in Honolulu.

Our research of the company shows it was opened seven months ago.

Medicaid Director Sandra King Young said at the hearing that the selection of the company was based on the quick return of results, which is right after the test. Travelers have to self swab instead of company personnel or medical personnel doing the swab.

In other Covid related news, the sample from the first confirmed coronavirus case who arrived on the September 13 flight has not been sent off island for testing. When asked about this, Health Director Motusa said they are discussing this matter today.

The next Hawaiian Airlines flight is this Thursday, October 14. Covid testing for outbound travelers is today at the Tafuna Community Health Center from 9am-12pm only.