THE IMMUNISATION RATE OF SAMOA PREVENTS N.Z MEASLES

Aiono Alec Joseph Ekeroma ONZM (Photo: Pasifika Futures)

The shocking 2019 measles outbreak has made the people of Samoa concerned about measles infections found by New Zealand's Ministry of Health last month. We are however safe due to our Immunisation Rate, as stated by the Ministry of Health’s Director General.

The Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Aiono Alec Ekeroma, showed the confidence of the Ministry of Health in securing the people’s health and predicting good border control during an interview.

Concern exists whenever infectious illnesses spread across borders.

“Our borders remain closed to persons with known infectious diseases because we collaborate closely with NZ Public Health, the Regional Vector Control group, and other regional authorities to exchange health intelligence.”

“When Pago encountered a scare, we launched a measles vaccine program around two months ago, we have a high vaccination rate.”

“As of August 23, 92% of the country has had MMR1 vaccinations, compared to 79% for MMR2; low coverage regions for MMR1 include Leulumoega (72%), Faleolo (62%) and Poutasi (65%).”

It should be urged that district hospitals concentrate on their coverage. Leulumoega District Hospital should plan outreach efforts in the communities between Saleimoa and Vailuutai, according to Dr. Ekeroma.

“Despite the fact that our vaccination rate is high, we are nevertheless reminding parents to get their kids vaccinated by publishing measles advisories on social media and other websites.” 

This is especially important given the anticipated increase in travel over the Christmas holiday. 

More briefings and forward advisories will be posted on the Ministry of Health's internet platforms and facebook page.