10 Jun 2023

American Samoa lifts its Measles Emergency Declaration

From , 6:02 am on 10 June 2023
MMR vaccinations underway in American Samoa.

MMR vaccinations underway in American Samoa. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Monica Miller

American Samoa's department of health epidemiologist says he is comfortable supporting the end of the Measles Emergency Declaration which is set to end today. 

The US territory's governor extended the declaration last month until June 8th, local time. 

Since April 24th, American Samoa's been under a state of emergency which led to day care centres and schools temporarily closing. 

There has been 83 probable and two positive cases recorded throughout the outbreak. 

Epidemiologist Scott Anesi says the territory was waiting on test results, which have now returned negative, before lifting the declaration. 

He spoke with RNZ Pacific's Caleb Fotheringham about the current situation. 
 

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