U.S.P. Alafua shuts its doors as part of measles response

By Adel Fruean 26 November 2019, 7:03PM

The University of the South Pacific's Alafua Campus has been closed to members of the public and students until further notice. 

The decision is part of an effort to minimise the risk of measles, with the death toll reaching 32 as of Tuesday afternoon.

The Government has declared a state of emergency, under which orders have been given to minimise the risk of infection for members of the public.

The orders include closing of schools, examinations and children under 19 prohibited from congregating in public gatherings. 

The closure was confirmed by SeulGee Samuelu who is the U.S.P. Alafua Campus, Coordinator within the student administrative who spoke on behalf of the Campus Director.

The announcement was made on the campus’s Facebook page on Tuesday.

The closure started on Monday 25th November which was approved by the Vice Chancellor and President of the University.

“Only the delivery of essential goods and services (such as animal feed/ vendors and service contractors) will be allowed onto campus during this period of closure,” according to a statement by the campus.

All staff of the university are continue to work as usual until further notice.

“The ‘State of Emergency’ is for 30 days but the period may be extended depending on the measles outbreak situation.

“Everyone is advised to ensure they get vaccinated and please and take care of yourselves.

“Surgical masks are available for staff from the Student Administrative Services (S.A.S.) office until supplies finish.”

The statement also added that the campus will keep the campus community updated if there are any changes to these directives. 

The National University of Samoa’s examinations along with college examinations of Samoa School Leaving Certificate (S.S.L.C.) and Samoa School Certificates (S.S.C.) were cut short after the first week when the Government issued state of emergency orders.

N.U.S. postponed its Foundation student graduation as well and postponed the vocational studies graduation until April 2020.

In a press release issued, the N.U.S Council announced that several students had contracted measles and arrived on campus, only to be sent home. 

 

 

 

By Adel Fruean 26 November 2019, 7:03PM

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