Dr. Waqainabete says there is a threat the disease can enter the country through people visiting our shores.

The Ministry of Health has put measures in place to prevent any outbreak of measles in the country.

With the recent outbreak of measles in New Zealand and Samoa, Health Minister Dr. Ifereimi Waqainabete says they are doubling their effort to prevent the disease from entering the country.

Dr. Waqainabete says there is a threat the disease can enter the country through people visiting our shores.

“There is a challenge upon us, measles is upon us, Tonga and Samoa have gone down that road, as I have eluded to we are concerned what will happen in the country, we are trying our best that it will not happen”

In response to the recent outbreaks, UNICEF and WHO are continuing to provide strong support and resources to assist Pacific Island countries in preparing for and responding to the threat of measles, including the provision of 89,000 vaccines that will help to protect at-risk populations.