More than a dozen medical and emergency service workers who helped Samoa combat one of the worst measles outbreaks in the nation's history will be recognised for their life-saving work today.
A team of 15 of the state's top doctors, nurses, firefighters and other clinical professionals responded to Samoa's State of Emergency late last year, as the highly contagious infectious disease killed dozens and infected thousands.
Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT) members from SA Ambulance Service MedSTAR, the Women's and Children's Health Network, Central Adelaide Local Health Network and the Metropolitan Fire Service formed part of the Australian Government mission.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Stephen Wade, expressed his gratitude to South Australia's well-trained professionals who provided aid to our Pacific neighbours.
"The South Australian response to the developing Covoid19 (Coronavirus) outbreak, led by Chief Public Health Officer Associate Professor Nicola Spurrier, is demonstrating that SA Health's infection control skills are of a very high standard." Minister Wade said.
"It is pleasing to see that expertise being recognised internationally and used to help others in places such as Samoa.
"The selfless heroes who went to Samoa should be proud of the crucial role they played in assisting in such a challenging crisis.
"Our thoughts are with the Samoan people, the impact of the outbreak has been devastating."
Dr Andrew Pearce, Director Clinical Services, SA Ambulance Service MedSTAR, was among those deployed to care for patients within the hospital and dedicated measles units.
The Australian contingent relieved exhausted workers at the Tupua Tamasese Meaole National Hospital, where during the peak of the epidemic more than 150 infected patients presented daily.
An emergency vaccination campaign was implemented, with international teams administering thousands of much-needed immunisations.
"An international response was requested to help Samoa treat the overwhelming number of measles complications and prevent further spread of the disease. Had the outbreak not been contained, it would have resulted in further loss of life," said Dr Pearce.
"The outbreak stabilised prior to our return, with an estimated 95 per cent immunisation rate across all age groups in the community.
"This was an extremely challenging mission for everyone involved. There was an outpouring of grief for the lives lost, sadly, many of which were young children.
"We are all touched by the special welcome back we have received today."
Australian support was deployed to Samoa on 4 November 2019, with South Australian medical teams returning 6 January 2020.
The State Government will formally recognise the South Australian contingent in Question Time in the Public Gallery of the Legislative Council from 2.15pm to 3.15pm, Wednesday 19 February 2020. A private thank you reception will follow.
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