15 Jun 2015

American Samoa closes second building due to rat infestation

1:57 pm on 15 June 2015

Another government building in American Samoa has been closed due to health concerns.

The Jean P Hayden Museum in Fagatogo has been shut down by the Department of Health after an inspecting team found the building was severely deteriorated and infested with rats.

The Department's Chief Compliance Officer, Papalii Marion Fitisemanu, says the conditions are a health risk for employees and members of the public.

Last week the department closed parts of the AP Lutali Executive Office Building in Utulei, due to the stench of dead rats.

The incident triggered other government agencies to report unsanitary conditions in their buildings.

The museum has eight employees.