HEALTH SECRETARY FRANCISCO DUQUE CHAIRS ASEAN + 3 SPECIAL HEALTH MINISTERS MEETING ON INFLUENZA A (H1N1), BANGKOK, 7-8 MAY 2009

Philippine Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Francisco Duque III was recently in Bangkok to chair the ASEAN+3 Special Health Ministers Meeting on Influenza A (H1N1). The meeting was held at the Dusit Thani Hotel on 7-8 May 2009.

During the meeting, ASEAN member countries adopted collective regional measures to address the effect of the H1N1 virus. ASEAN initiatives have likewise solicited the full support of its Dialogue Partners - China, Japan and the Republic of Korea Ministers.

The Joint Ministerial Statement, among others, encouraged the transfer of technology in the production of anti-viral drugs, continuous implementation of national pandemic preparedness plan, and possible establishment of a system to facilitate the sharing of essential supplies in the region in case of emergency needs.

Dr. Enrique Tayag, DOH’s National Epidemiology Center, also chaired the Senior Officials’ Meeting on Influenza A (H1N1) on 7 May 2009.

On 12 May, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that human cases of the Influenza A (H1N1) have reached 5,251, with 61 deaths, mostly in North America where the virus originated.

Meanwhile, as of 14 May, the Philippines remains Influenza A (H1N1)-free. Secretary Duque stated that all 49 people who had been put under observation in government and private hospitals since 1 May have been discharged. (Please view the DOH website: http://www.doh.gov.ph/ for announcements.)
Thailand, on the other hand, confirmed on 14 May 2009 its first two cases of Influenza A (H1N1) in patients who had returned from Mexico. Public Health Minister Witthaya Kaewparadai said the two are now in a normal condition after undergoing a five-day antiviral regimen.

The Philippines
Office of the President
Department of Foreign Affairs
Department of Trade & Industry
Department of Tourism
Philippine Media
° The Manila Bulletin Online
° The Philippine Daily Inquirer
° The Philippine Star

Thailand
Office of the Premier
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Thai Media
° Bangkok Post
° The Nation