Photo: AFP
American Samoa's Governor has created a Covid-19 Vaccine Distribution Taskforce, charged with planning the distribution of any vaccine for the coronavirus when it becomes available.
The taskforce is to be co-chaired by LBJ Medical Centre Chief Executive, Faumuina John Faumuina and Health Director Motusa Tuileama Nua.
The outgoing-governor, Lolo Matalasi Moliga, said there was a hope the first Covid-19 vaccine could be available next month.
He said the assumption was that the initial distribution of any vaccine will be determined on a percentage of the total population.
He said it was important for American Samoa to prepare to ensure the territory is ready for immediate distribution.
Lolo said a Vaccine Distribution Plan would include the required infrastructure to handle the storage, priority distribution policies, method of distribution, follow up protocols and other policies to ensure equitable and efficient access.
Besides the co-chairs, there are 17 other members, mostly physicians from the hospital and the health department, as well as the Attorney-General.
Photo: AFP