Risk / Health Info for American Samoa

Global Travel Clinics can help you work out what vaccines you need to go to American Samoa. Medical facilities are basic and if you require complicated treatment you will have to be evacuated to New Zealand, Hawaii or Australia.

Dengue fever in American Samoa

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in American Samoa. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Zika in American Samoa

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in American Samoa. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to American Samoa. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.

Chikungunya virus in American Samoa

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in American Samoa. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.