APIA, 31 OCTOBER 2019 (SAMOA GLOBAL, NEWS) — Samoa’s Ministry of Health has issued a fourth update report on the measles outbreak advising that children are left at home, and for schools to close as soon as possible after exams.

“We wish to remind the public that the measles virus is very contagious. The measles virus can be spread by an infected person through the air through breathing, coughing or sneezing. It is important for the public to remain alert for any signs or symptoms of measles.”

The Ministry advises that it is important not to panic but to seek medical advice if you or any member of your family’s condition worsens.

The results of testing is outlined by the Ministry:

*As of 27 October 2019, there have been 314 suspected measles cases with 15 confirmed cases. There are 146 laboratory results pending.

*To date, there has been three related mortality; a 14 month-old; a 8 month old and a 37 year old, all are suspected to be measles related, currently awaiting laboratory test;

* Of the 314 cases, mostly are children less than 4 years of age.

* 79% (249) of suspected cases reside in Upolu and 18% (57) in Savaii

* 29% (91) of the 314 suspected cases have been admitted to hospital, 96% were admitted at TTMH with one transferred from Savaii,4% (4); majority of admissions are less than 5 years old with 3 pregnant mothers (2 at TTM Hospital and 1 at MTII Hospital, Savaii)

The Ministry of Health continues to encourage the public to get their measles vaccinations if they have not been vaccinated against measles or have not previously contacted measles.

The Ministry will advise of the laboratory results are received for the suspected measles related death reported earlier.

The public are advised that measles vaccinations are available at all Health Facilities including:

* The Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital (TTMH) on Upolu. The Immunization clinic is located at the TTMH Emergency Department.

*The Malietoa Tanumafili 11 Hospital (MT11H) on Savaii. The Immunization clinic is located at the MT2H emergency department.

“Please be advised that it can take up to two weeks for the vaccination to become fully effective so it is important that the usual prevention measures are taken for up to two weeks after you have been vaccinated.

“We wish to remind the public that the measles virus is very contagious. The measles virus can be spread by an infected person through the air through breathing, coughing or sneezing. It is important for the public to remain alert for any signs or symptoms of measles.

Initial measles symptoms include: a high fever, cough, runny nose, and, red and watery eyes as well as, eye sensitivity to light.

After 3-5 days a raised red rash will start to appear on the head, face and body. Please note that not all symptoms may be present.

Some of the people who should not be vaccinated with the current measles vaccine includes; infants less than 6 months of age, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems and people with a history of allergic reaction to the vaccine.

Prevention measures should be taken to minimize the risk of contracting measles and urgent medical advice be sought for anyone in this vulnerable group suspects that they have measles.

Please advise the immunization nurse or doctor if you have any of the above conditions or any other Non-Communicable Disease (diabetes, high blood pressure etc).

For those travelling to New Zealand which has been experiencing a major measles outbreak or, any country, the Ministry strongly recommends that they check their immunization status. If individuals have not been immunised or are unsure of their immunization status we encourage you to look at getting immunized at least 2 weeks before travel.

If anyone has any concerns in this regard, please contact one of the Ministry of Health contacts listed below or your healthcare provider.

It is important not to panic but to seek medical advice if you or any member of your family’s condition worsens. (PACNEWS)