Samoa measles death toll increase to 63

Another death has been recorded in Samoa due to the measles epidemic, increasing the number of deaths to 63.

The Government of Samoa says now there more than 4,300 measles cases they have received since the outbreak started, including 140 in the last 24 hours.

The latest figures come as the country continues its two-day mobile vaccination campaign, which involves a nationwide daytime curfew. 

The lockdown applies to almost everyone, except essential services. Private vehicles are also banned on the roads from 7am until 5pm.

People without the measles vaccine have been told to leave a red flag or cloth outside their homes.

In the first day of the shutdown, it is estimated about 6000 vaccinations were administered.

A team of 55 nurses and 15 physicians arrived in Apia yesterday and will take part in a door-to-door screening effort.