COVID-19 testing in Samoa reveals 196 community cases

There are 192 cases reported on Upolu, four cases reported on Savai'i but no cases reported on the islands of Manono or Apolima.
There are 192 cases reported on Upolu, four cases reported on Savai'i but no cases reported on the islands of Manono or Apolima. Photo credit: Image - Getty Images

By RNZ

The number of Covid -19 cases in Samoa has climbed to 196.

This included 15 imported cases and 85 people who tested positive on Sunday.

There are 192 cases reported on Upolu, four cases reported on Savai'i but no cases reported on the islands of Manono or Apolima.

Eleven people are reported to be in isolation at Moto'otua Hospital.

The first case of community transmission was identified on Thursday and since then the Ministry of Health has carried 2,207 tests at six Covid-19 screening sites in addition to tests conducted in health facilities.

The screening site at the Red Cross headquarters at Tuanaimato in Apia has so far recorded 47% of the positive cases.

The prime minister has visited all district hospitals with members of Cabinet as Samoa deals with the rapid spread.

Fiame Naomi Mata'afa thanked staff urged them to reach out if they encounter any issues.

Fiame said the visit to hospitals at Lufilufi, Lalomanu, Poutasi, Sa'anapu, Faleolo and Leulumoega were to see first hand whether they are well prepared.

She said "the key word is access for the public" to local facilities so they avoid going to the national hospital in Apia "which is already congested."