Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — With close to 20 suspected cases of measles identified in the territory Dept. Of Education has closed all schools beginning today, Monday April 24, through Friday, May 12.   This follows the closure, until further notice, of all daycare centers last week Thursday after the first case of measles was confirmed in the territory.

Dept. Direcor of Health Vesi Talalelei Fautanu told KVZK-TV last night that they have detected suspected cases in Fagalii all the way to Aunu’u.

“Swab tests have been done for confirmation and will be sent overseas.”

He confirmed that two children — a five-month old and a two-year old – are in isolation at LBJ Medical Center undergoing treatment.

According to the Deputy Director, Health Director Motusa Tuileama Nua and a medical team personally informed the governor last night.

Meanwhile, the Dept. of Health is advising parents to keep their children at home in order to contain the spread of the virus.

“DOE will be working collaboratively with Dept. of Health staff to ensure that all school children are fully vaccinated accordingly.”

Department of Health will have immunization teams posted and available at the following locations during the following times this week. Families are highly encouraged to bring their children for required vaccinations. When planning to go to a site or clinic, wear a mask and bring the following documents:

- Immunization card

- Valid Photo ID of parent/guardian

A Parent/guardian needs to be present to sign consent forms for child/recipient. IF Immunization card is not found or available, the birth certificate of child/recipient can be used if necessary.

MONDAY, APRIL 24

8am-10am: Pavaia’i ECE, Siliaga Elementary, Tafuna Elemetary ECE, Tafuna Stand Alone ECE Center.

10am-12noon: Altataua ECE, Leone Stand Alone ECE Center, Lupelele ECE

TUESDAY, APRIL 25

8am-10am: Matafao ECE, Aua ECE

10am-12noon: Pago ECE, Fagasa ECE

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26

8am-10am: Fagaitua ECE, Masafau Elementary

10am-12 noon: Lauli’I ECE, Aoa ECE

All school will now be implementing their virtual leaning plans throughout the closure.  Please contact your child’s respective teacher or school administrator for any questions concerning school projects and assignments.

The School Lunch Program will be functioning and a distribution plan is forthcoming once designated areas for pick up are confirmed. More information on this as it becomes available.

All DOE afterschool gatherings such as academic programs, sports programs, practices and community outread programs are suspended until further notice.

The Dept. of Education will continue to work collaborative with DOH to keep parents and guardians informed.

Updates at samoanews.com and Samoa News Media Facebook as they become available