1. Results of Genomic Sequencing arrived from New Zealand
Following the detection of the first community case in Samoa on 17th March 2022 and
subsequent increase in community cases, more than 50 samples of positive cases were
prepared and sent to New Zealand for genomic sequencing. The results returned yesterday
afternoon confirmed that it is the BA.1 sub lineage of the Omicron variant that is now in
the community. This sub lineage of the Omicron variant was common in many countries
since the beginning of this year, however the most recent BA.2 sub lineage of the Omicron
variant appears to have displaced the BA.1 in many countries including New Zealand and
Australia.

2. Four (4) passengers from the flight on 29 th March from New Zealand tested
positive.
Two hundred and nineteen (219) passengers arrived from Auckland on Tuesday 29 th March.
All were swabbed upon arrival at the airport prior to quarantine. The results returned 4
positive cases. Passengers will undertake their second tests tomorrow (Saturday, 2 April).

3. Quarantine period for the flight from New Zealand extended to 10 days
The discovery of 4 positive cases from the flight on the 29 th of March and the re-assessment
of the current situation in the country, has led to the decision to extend the quarantine period
for passengers from this flight to 10 days. The earlier decision to commence the 7 day
quarantine for the flight of the 29 th of March has been revoked.