US supports Micronesia's COVID-19 response through partnerships and funding

US supports Micronesia's COVID-19 response through partnerships and funding
Geopolitics
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Jennifer Johnson Ambassador | U.S. Embassy in Federated State of Micronesia

The United States government and Embassy Kolonia are actively collaborating with the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. response in Pacific Island countries is focusing on FSM due to a close relationship rooted in the Compacts of Free Association and longstanding public health programs.

For years, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has worked with FSM to develop emergency response plans. Currently leading the U.S. COVID-19 response, CDC frequently communicates with the FSM Department of Health to assess needs and provide assistance. Weekly calls are held with healthcare professionals in U.S. Pacific territories and FSM, while collaboration continues with WHO colleagues to adapt national response plans for COVID-19.

The United States supports COVID-19 testing for FSM through CDC laboratories in Atlanta, Hawaii's state public health laboratory, and Guam Public Health Laboratory. Additional test kits are being supplied to meet increased testing demands in Guam.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) received part of an $8.3 billion supplemental funding package for coronavirus-related efforts. Funding allocations include $420,402.60 for FSM, alongside amounts for other Pacific territories.

FSM is eligible for personal protective equipment from the strategic national stockpile managed by HHS/Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response.

U.S. Embassy Kolonia coordinates with partners such as Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Pacific Islands Health Officers Association (PIHOA), and WHO to address requests for PPE, medical supplies, testing, and technical assistance.

"U.S. Embassy Kolonia continues to work closely with the government of the Federated States of Micronesia," stated a representative from the embassy.

For more information or assistance, contact Abigail Kim at U.S. Embassy Kolonia via phone at 691-320-2187 or email at KoloniaPAS@state.gov.