American Samoa has extended its current state of emergency, saying the measles and the global outbreak of the covid-19 coronavirus remain a threat to public health.
Photo: RNZI / Monica Miller
The new declaration extends the order through to 26 March.
Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga said the coronavirus presented unique challenges because of the lack of a cure or vaccine and meant a flexible response was needed to protect American Samoans' health.
All foreign travelers, except for Samoa passport holders, must enter American Samoa through Hawai'i and must spend 14 days in Hawaii before entering the territory.
Travellers from affected countries must remain in an unaffected country for at least two weeks prior to entry to American Samoa and all entry permit applications will be subject to a 30-day review period.
However, exceptions may be made for professionals on a case-by-case basis to assist in efforts to combat the spread of the disease.