A top doctor in Samoa believes that to prevent another measles outbreak, vaccination rates must increase, and the government may need to consider mandatory vaccination to protect everyone.
Oceania University of Medicine Vice Chancellor Professor Asiata Dr Satupaitea Viali said the warning issued earlier this week by Ministry of Health Director General Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen should be taken seriously.
The Samoa Observer reports that low measles vaccination rates were highlighted by the Ministry of Health following reports of growing cases of measles in New Zealand and Australia.
“This is a great warning given the pending tide of danger moving to Samoa, simply because of travel and people movement,” said Asiata.
He added that regions in Samoa with lower vaccination rates are in higher danger of an outbreak and death from an outbreak.
Areas identified include the Northwest of Upolu from Saleimoa to Siufaga, Falelatai, Laulii to Leauvaa and Aleipata.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, and about 90 percent of non-immune people who are exposed will be infected.
Asiata said the urgent advice for parents and the country is that if children have not had the measles vaccination, it is of paramount importance that they get to a health center and get their children vaccinated.
He said the government will need to decide whether to make vaccination mandatory so that everyone is protected.
If an outbreak does occur, Asiata added, lockdown and isolation measure — including closing the borders — should be considered.
Photo: Samoa Observer
