Mr Witthaya said preventive measures include the exchange of information concerning the influenza A outbreak, forming regional mobile units to inspect possible influenza A infction along their borders, and cooperation in laboratory virus testing.

In addition, passengers who travel from areas where the flu has been detected will be screened to reduce negative effects on trade and the economy.

There will also be joint studies of the virus to assist the development of a public health system and to handle any future outbreak in the region.

Mr Witthaya said Japan's senior vice health minister Takao Watanabe had said Tokyo was willing to support and help Asean combat the flu.

Mr Watanabe also said Japan would study the Thai idea of mobile units of health volunteers to detect any outbreak in local communities, he said.

Mr Witthaya said most of participants at Friday's meeting of regional health ministers and officials in Bangkok expressed their satisfaction with the outcome.