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Deadly measles epidemic triggers Samoa health emergency

A 30-day state of emergency has been declared in Samoa following a deadly measles epidemic.

The health alert was issued on Sunday with all travellers to the South Pacific island nation urged to ensure all vaccinations are up to date before travelling.

A total of 314 suspected and 15 confirmed cases of measles had been reported at the end of October.

The outbreak triggered a change to Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice.

The FCO said: “On 17 November 2019 Samoa declared a health emergency following several deaths linked to the ongoing measles outbreak.

“You should monitor the NaTHNaC website for the latest updates and advice.”

The Samoan Tourist Authority said: “The Samoa ministry of health has mobilised a co-ordinated targeted campaign to protect the health of the community through a vaccination outreach programme with numerous vaccination clinics set up around the country.”

 

 

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