In Samoa, memory of the tragic measles outbreak in late 2019 has galvanized communities’ commitment to keep themselves safe from COVID-19, using traditional resources and a holistic approach.
In early 2020, health authorities in Samoa became aware that if the coronavirus arrived, health facilities and health workers could be overwhelmed.
High rates of non-communicable diseases including cancer, diabetes and heart disease means that many people would be extremely vulnerable to the virus.
It is a similar situation for several other Pacific countries and areas which, as of October 2020, had not had a single COVID-19 case: American Samoa, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Pitcairn Islands,