From next month, it will be compulsory for every child in Samoa to be vaccinated against measles when they reach the eligible age of six months.
This picture released on December 5 by UNICEF Samoa shows nurse Fa'atafa Tavita (R) speaking with a family at the Apia Town Clinic in Samoa's capital city Apia. Photo: AFP PHOTO / UNICEF / ALLAN STEPHEN
Parliament passed the Infants Amendment Bill 2019 on Wednesday.
Dubbed by prime minister as the 'Law of Love' it was rushed through Parliament under urgency.
It comes as the death toll reached 76, most of whom are young children.
Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said the law would allow for stiff penalties for those who did not adhere to the compulsory vaccination law.
School principals stand to be fined up to $US3700 if they allow a child to be registered in school who has not been immunised.
It will be a requirement for each child being enrolled to produce their vaccination and immunisation records before registration, without exception.
The law also ensures that all early childhood education centres enforce the law at registration time.
The law will come into effect on 1 January, 2020 after the Head of State signs it.
Samoa's former prime minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi. Photo: Samoa Govt
