51.8% of American Samoa's population received first dose of Covid vaccine

Pago Pago-- At least 51.8 percent of American Samoa's population have received their first dose of Covid-19 vaccine, while 36.9 percent have completed their dual shots as of March 22, the Talanei News reported.

Talenei said the older age groups — 51 and older — who are at high risk of serious and/or life-threatening complications from Covid-19 continue to be vaccinated in large numbers.

American Samoa officials anticipate achieving herd immunity soon and the possibility of revising the Department of Health policies with regard to quarantine requirements.

ADVERTISEMENT

He said American Samoa will continue to take extra precautions and a more conservative approach to quarantine measures. “Until such a time where the medical community feels confident enough and comfortable with our vaccination rates, we will continue to do what is necessary to repatriate our residents and keep our community safe from the virus," Ale said.

ADVERTISEMENT

Talanei reported that a passenger on the second repatriation flight from Honolulu who fell ill while in quarantine at the Tradewinds Hotel was medivaced to New Zealand on Monday.

He had been taken to the LBJ Hospital early last week after experiencing breathing complications.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Covid-19 Task Force said 187 passengers of the second repatriation flight on March 10 were released from the quarantine site this past Monday and reunited with their families.

“One passenger which makes the 188 total passenger count for the second repatriation flight was transferred to the LBJ Hospital and was medivaced to New Zealand on Monday for medical treatment not related to Covid,” said the press release.

ADVERTISEMENT