The Department of Health (DOH) announced today that it is stepping up Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccinations.
This is in response to a suspected case of measles reported from Samoa.
Dr. Elizabeth Lauvao, Director of Clinical Services, told KHJ News, they’re not waiting until a confirmation of the suspected measles case but are acting now.
She said, beginning today, the baby clinic in Tafuna will be open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, to accommodate vaccinations of infants and children.
The suspected case in Samoa is an 11-month-old baby admitted to the national hospital with symptoms of measles.
Samples were sent to New Zealand for testing.
DOH held a press conference today to announce the immunization campaign, and gave advice to parents about identifying symptoms of measles and prevention measures.
DOH Epidemiologist Scott Anesi
DOH Epidemiologist Scott Anesi:
Play Audioidentify-symptoms
DOH advised that measles can be especially serious for infants, children under 5, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
“Measles is even more contagious than COVID-19,” they say.
To stay safe, make sure your child’s MMR vaccinations are up-to-date. Eligible school-aged children need to have the vaccine to go to school. Any school-age child who has not been vaccinated may be asked to stay home.
Daycare centers are reminded to work with the DOH Immunization Program to make sure eligible children are vaccinated, or they may have to close in seven days.
Symptoms include fever, watery pink eyes, cough, runny nose and a rash.
Anyone showing these symptoms should stay home, isolate from others, and call the DOH Hotline 219.
When visiting any DOH clinic, please wear a mask for yours and others protection.
For immunizations, bring along immunization card and birth certificate for your child.
