Asean Statement On Avian Flu And Disaster Preparedness
27 June 2006
Avian Flu represents a potential global threat and is a matter of high priority
for member countries of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Each ASEAN member country is committed to taking a responsible approach to proactive
preparation and risk mitigation regarding the potential for any occurrence or
escalation of the Avian Flu.
In 2004, ASEAN member countries set up a regional Task Force on Highly Pathogenic
Avian Influenza (HPAI) to monitor global developments, coordinate information-sharing
and formulate a coordinated multi-agency and multi-sectoral approach to prevent,
control and eradicate the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
The HPAI Taskforce is working closely with other key international organizations
including the World Health Organization, Food and Agriculture Organization and
the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) on regional preparedness to deal
with the Avian Flu threat.
An ASEAN Crisis Communications Team has also been set up to manage communications
on any issues or crises that may affect travel and tourism in ASEAN. The ACCT
has put in place a framework and action plan for crisis communications to provide
accurate and timely information to potential visitors to ASEAN and enable them
to make informed decisions about visiting the region.
ASEAN advises anyone concerned about Avian Flu to monitor information provided
by the World Health Organization (WHO) or the health authorities of specific
countries.
Countries across the ASEAN region have stepped up measures to monitor for and
deal swiftly with Avian Flu risks. Through rigorous monitoring and transparent
reporting, certain countries in the ASEAN region have detected the presence
of Avian Flu. Others have reported no indication to-date that Avian Flu is present,
but remain vigilant.
Based on its current assessment, the WHO has not indicated the need for restrictions
on travel to any areas as a result of Avian Flu. As a precaution, it is recommended
that travelers to affected areas avoid contact with live animal markets and
poultry farms, and any free-ranging or caged poultry.
About ASEAN
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN was established on 8 August
1967 in Bangkok. Currently, ASEAN comprises Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia,
Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam. The
aims and purpose of the ASEAN are: (i) to accelerate the economic growth, social
progress and cultural development in the region through joint endeavours in
the spirit of equality and partnership in order to strengthen the foundation
for a prosperous and peaceful community of Southeast Asian nations, and (ii)
to promote regional peace and stability through abiding respect for justice
and the rule of law in the relationship among countries in the region and adherence
to the principles of the United Nations Charter.