Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — It has been confirmed that Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga has COVID-19 and is now in isolation. He put those rumors to rest after confirming it during yesterday’s press conference and stated that he’s asymptomatic.

The Governor confirmed that he’s fully vaccinated and has completed two booster shots as mandated by the Department of Health.

The Governor said he has received a number of calls from the media inquiring if he had COVID-19. “After five days of isolation I will need a letter from the [Director of Health] Motusa to allow me to leave the house.”

He thanked all the front liners for their sacrifice, from the doctors, nurses Health and Hospital officials, Cabinet members, FEMA as well as the Task Force that is headed by Lt Governor Talauega Eleasalo Ale, for their efforts in dealing with COVID-19.

Adding that it is not an easy task but the Government will assist and ensure the people of American Samoa are safe and secure.

He also commended the support from the public through prayers and adhering to health measures, COVID restrictions and getting vaccinated.

Lemanu noted that in the line of duty difficult decisions are made for the betterment of the people.

Governor Lemanu continues to urge the public to adhere health preventative measures such as masking up, wash hands regularly and get vaccinated, which is very important.

The public had been wondering why the governor has not been attending any of the graduation ceremonies to date — beginning with the American Samoa Community College commencement ceremony.

(Read report on the latest emergency declaration in yesterday’s issue and you can download the full declaration from our website: www.samoanews.com)