The measles epidemic has turned this festive season on its head with members of the public noticing less children accompanying their parents during Christmas shopping.

For 78-year-old shopper, Mataomanu Meleisea, the absence of children at the Malae -O-Fatu made the atmosphere different from previous festive seasons.

“Looking around all I see are adults and there are no kids but it’s really different now,” she said.

But on the flip side, Mrs Meleisea said the shopping experience is now easier for parents without their children in tow.

The measles epidemic which has already claimed over 70 lives was on her mind.

“Because this is another way that measles can spread fast is bringing the kids to places overcrowded,” she added.

Another member of the public, 48-year-old Siliah Autusitino, said she also noticed the absence of children during the Christmas shopping period.

“The place here is really empty and not that many kids around with their parents but only parents themselves,” she added.

“It is always the kids that make a time like this overcrowded because parents bring their kids to shop for what they want for Christmas.”

For 34-year-old Robert Umi, he was amazed to see less number of children when Christmas is always a time for parents and children.

“Back then this place parents will bring their kids to shop and spend time, and there will be kids playing at the playground,” he said.

Mr. Umi said this year’s Christmas is unlike previous years due to the sight of parents shopping without their children. 

But for 67-year-old Simona Simona, shopping without children in town during Christmas is always good for parents. 

“Parents find it hard to go shopping because the kid always cries for this toy or that toy,” he said.