Gov reiterates COVID restrictions

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Gov. Lemanu Peleti Mauga is reminding cabinet members of new COVID-19 restrictions that mandate proof of COVID-19 vaccination or evidence of a negative test is required for persons entering any government owned or leased building.

“It is incumbent on all directors and agency heads to implement and enforce these policies,” the governor wrote in an Apr. 14 memorandum, noting that the new declaration, currently in effect, requires government agencies to “take steps to protect our residents and employees from the spread of COVID-19.”

The governor’s directive comes amid some confusion over this entry requirement as some agencies are reported to not be complying with the mandate, or are not enforcing it, while members of the public are ignoring the proof of vaccination evidence for entry into ASG buildings.

The governor, in his memo, reminded directors of provisions in the latest declaration, that: no person shall be admitted to a government owned or leased building without showing proof of full vaccination or evidence of a negative test within the last 24 hours.

Additionally, departments, agencies, and offices shall post signs at all entry points informing the public of the masking and entry requirements.

A provision under the current declaration, states that — unvaccinated persons without proof of a negative test may enter government facilities only for the purpose of receiving emergency medical care, COVID testing or COVID vaccination.

For mask-use, the governor tells directors that masks must cover the mouth and nose of the person wearing the mask, saying that many people let the mask drop below their nose. “Directors and supervisors must monitor mask use,” the governor said.

The memo also states that N-95 and KN-95 masks are the best masks to use. Surgical masks may be used if N-95 and KN-95 are not available. Additionally, cloth masks should only be used if there are no other options available.

If a department, or agency needs masks, the governor informed directors to coordinate with the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to obtain masks.

Lemanu also said as with all workplaces, ASG departments and agencies must maintain minimal on-site staffing, and the use of remote work to the maximum extent possible is encouraged.

Directors were informed to take precautions to protect their workers and customers from COVID-19, including but not limited to — encouraging employees to be tested for the virus if they show symptoms of infection and mandating mask use in accordance with provisions of the emergency declaration.

Furthermore, provide for social distancing by limiting access to facilities to prevent overcrowding and allow for social distancing; arrange workspace so that employees are at last six feet apart; take actions to keep customers from clustering near cash registers and in other locations where customers tend to gather; and limit access to in-door break areas so that people eat individually and separated.

“Finally, remember that you need to make the public aware of the precautions that you are taking and the alternative means of providing services while office staff is reduced,” the governor said and acknowledged with appreciation departments and agencies who continue to maintain safe work spaces to protect ASG employees.