Travellers to Samoa cautioned over deadly measles outbreak

Samoa's Tourism Authority is warning travellers to avoid spreading measles by getting immunised and heeding quarantine restrictions if unwell.

Health officials are on high alert, offering free vaccinations for everyone, with a particular focus on young children and babies.

Three people have died in the past fortnight with clinical signs indicating measles as the most probable cause.

Over 300 people are now thought to have the viral illness.

While the Tourism Authority said the country was still open for business, it did strongly advise travellers to get immunised at least two weeks before travelling.

Following the recent deaths, people have flocked to hospitals on Upolu and Savvaii to get the MMR vaccination.

Health authorities are asking tourists to cover their mouths when sneezing or coughing, keep children home if sick, and stay hydrated.

There are also reminders for good hygiene and hand washing practise and a message to avoid sharing drinks.

People who think they may have measles are being asked to seek medical advise by phoning public health officials on 66500 in Samoa.

Experts say measles is the most highly contagious disease known to man and can cause serious illness, disability and death.

Samoa school exams could be deferred

Meanwhile, Samoa's Minister of Education has warned that end-of-year exams may be deferred to next year as the measles epidemic intensifies.

Loau Keneti Sio told Talamua Online that exams could be deferred because the priority must be on the protection and security of children from the epidemic.

The Ministry of Health has closed all pre-schools after three deaths linked to measles in Samoa.

It said the deaths of two infants and a 37-year-old adult were suspected to be measles related, penging laboratory tests.

Loau said schools had been encouraged to report any suspected case of measles within their school community to ministries of education or health.