Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Department of Health (ASDOH) has issued a health alert after the Government of Samoa officially declared an outbreak of Whooping Cough last week, following six confirmed cases in Samoa reported by the Samoa Ministry of Health.

(Editor’s note: While to our knowledge ASDOH has not reported any local cases, travelers to Samoa and the Pacific region, especially during the upcoming holiday season, should follow the following travel protocols and recommendations, according to the ASG alert.)

Be on the look out for the following symptoms:

1. Early Stage (1-2 weeks): • Runny nose • Mild cough • Low fever

2. Severe Stage (1-6 weeks or longer): • Severe coughing fits that may end with a "whooping" sound when breathing in • Vomiting or extreme tiredness after coughing, and • Trouble catching your breath.

Please adhere to the following protocols:

• Wear a Mask: If you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, or come into contact with anyone displaying the symptoms above please wear a mask;

• Good Hygiene: ASDOH recommends practicing good hygiene to help prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses that can cause many respiratory illnesses;

• Avoid travel to high-endemic regions. If you are unable to avoid travel to these high-risk regions, please take every precaution as outlined above to keep yourself safe;

• Vaccination: Visit your nearest Community Health Center and inquire about a “whooping cough” (pertussis) vaccination

Passengers arriving into American Samoa who present with symptoms will be screened on arrival.

If unsure, seek medical attention or visit your nearest healthcare facility at DOH or LBJ Hospital. Please call 219 or 633-5871 for more information regarding this advisory.

ASDOH thanks everyone for their attention to this important matter, and wishes everyone a safe and festive season.