The Ministry of Health is well prepared for the upcoming Pacific Games in July.

That's the assurance given  by the outgoing Minister of Health, Tutaima Dr. Leao Tuitama, whose term in office ends on Monday as a result of a Cabinet reshuffle.

 “We’re prepared," he said.

“Remember, there’s about 4,000 expected and maybe if people do get sick, probably not 1,000 of them would all be sick, but yes, the Ministry is well prepared."

He reiterated the Ministry is on track in ensuring there are medicine available all throughout Samoa, including Savaii. 

“We already have it (medicines) to cater for the illnesses that usually arise from these kinds of events; contagious diseases, like the flu, especially dengue fever and others that can be prevented.

“We have also already allocated those who will be on duty in Savaii as only boxing will be done in Savaii, which will take only a week or something,” he said.

Tuitama said there is also readily available help coming from overseas.

“There is also the American army who has offered their help. We will work together during the event in case of emergencies, and we can also mobilize services of our neighbors, close to us, like New Zealand and Australia, when there is an urgent need.

“But with our plans for the event ahead of us, it’s been well prepared,” he said.

“The American army came for previous Games, they also came for S.I.Ds and they always offer their help. So we have already met their representatives confirming they are bringing their services. I don’t know, maybe 30-40 medical officials.”

Last month, Pacific Games Office C.E.O., Falefata Hele Matatia reaffirmed the Pacific Games’ position to assure the healthcare of officials and athletes attending the upcoming 2019 Pacific Games in July. 

“We have been working closely with the Ministry of Health since the beginning of our preparations and will continue to do so, to ensure we are prepared to host successful Games in July.  

“The Samoa 2019 Pacific Games is not the first event of this scale that Samoa has hosted.  Therefore, I have faith in the systems established by our Health Authorities to safeguard our people and our visitors.”