The World Bank has announced it is sending money to Samoa to help the island nation battle the Measles Epidemic that has killed 70 people, almost all of them children younger than five years old.

The Samoan Government will be able to draw US$3.5 Million from grant funds in an agreement to provide emergency funding in the event of a significant national emergency.  The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors also approved another US$9.3 Million to bolster the overal health care system over the coming years.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of life from the devastating measles outbreak which has affected so many children," said Annette Dixon, World Bank Vice-President for Human Development.  "Our thoughts are with the families who have lost beloved ones and are caring for those who are ill.  During this time of crisis, we support the people of Samoa and the government to fight the outbreak.

"Our funding will also support the government in strengthening the country's health system to ensure better preparedness and basic health services for all Samoans," she continued.

Health authorities have blamed anti-vaxxers spreading conspiracy theories for the low immunisation rate that left Samoa's children so vulnerable to a measles outbreak.