The local medical community met this afternoon to discuss a response to the latest coronavirus cases in Samoa and have provided recommendations to the Chairman of the Covid-19 Task Force, Lt Governor Talauega Eleasalo Ale.
Responding to KHJ News questions, Director of Health Motusa Tuileama Nua said an official announcement is expected to come from the Lt Governor, possibly this evening.
He said their recommendation is to provide support for Samoa’s efforts to stop any spread of the positive coronavirus cases now in isolation.
Earlier today Samoa Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa officially announced a 48 hour lockdown beginning at 6pm today up to 6 pm Monday.
This follows an additional five positive coronavirus cases identified yesterday from among travelers who arrived on a flight from Brisbane, Australia, on Wednesday.
Initially ten travelers from 76 passengers on board the flight tested positive. They are all being isolated at the nationak hospital in Motootua.
Nine others listed as close contacts are at a facility near Faleolo Airport.
The next scheduled flight from Samoa was set for Monday however KHJ News received confirmation from Health Director Motusa that there was a special, unscheduled flight this afternoon.
He said the 8 travelers on board are being quarantined at Tradewinds Hotel for a minimum of 7 days.
KHJ News understands that Attorney General Falefatu Ala’ilima Utu was among the passengers.
In December the task force removed quarantine for travelers from Samoa.
When asked about inter Samoa flights, Motusa said their recommendation has been given to the Covid Task Force chairman and he will make an announcement.
