Omicron makes tracks into virus-free outposts

Covid outbreaks in Samoa and Vanuatu have further whittled down the number of Pacific island nations that have escaped the pandemic, as cases surge after the first instances of community transmission in both countries.

- Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson

Tuvalu, Nauru and Micronesia are the only remaining Pacific island countries that have not recorded any cases of the virus, according to the World Health Organization.

Samoa recorded its first case of community transmission last month, when an American missionary tested positive in preparation for a flight out. The country reported another 155 cases last Wednesday, which took the current outbreak to 622, with experts suggesting the virus had likely been spreading before the first case was detected.

The country has closed its borders and gone into lockdown, shutting schools and banning public gatherings.

In Vanuatu, where the first case of community transmission was also reported last month, cases have spiked with 279 reported last Wednesday alone, which took the number since the beginning of the year to 1,373. The country is now at its highest alert level, with restrictions on movement and mandatory mask-wearing in public.