ASEAN+3 pledge cooperation to fight H1N1 flu

BANGKOK, May 8 (TNA) – The ASEAN+3 public health ministers meeting on Influenza A (H1N1) ended Friday in Bangkok, pledging control and preventive measures against the deadly virus.

Ministers jointly announced their agreement reached during the two-day meeting, chaired by Dr. Francisco T. Duque III, Health Secretary of the Philippines.

“We would like to assure everyone that each ASEAN+3 member state has been vigilant in monitoring and addressing this threat. The region is prepared more than ever to face and address Influenza A (H1N1),” Dr. Duque said.

The ASEAN+3 countries are committed to implementation of the national pandemic preparedness plan reflected by International Health Regulation(2005).

The ministers agreed that the international travellers surveillance system must be applied with minimal impacts on the economy and the tourism industry.

The meeting resolved that each country apply the following measures: controlling and monitoring human-human infection, holding exercises among agencies concerned, installing exit screening systems in affected areas and along international borders.

Moreover, they will bolster anti-viral medicine stockpile and ensure access to anti-viral drugs and protective masks and other gear.

The meeting agreed to greater cooperation in sharing data by establishing hotlines among national health authorities for more effective responses to the influenza. Joint outbreak investigation and response teams will be established among the countries.

The outcome of the Bangkok meeting will be presented to the WHO as it meets in Switzerland later this month. (TNA)