No evidence of human-to-human transmission of bird flu

"There is no evidence at present that people become contagious so the disease does not post a threat to the travel and tourism industries. The travel restrictions are unnecessary," the draft of a ministerial statement obtained by The Nation says.

Thailand today hosts a ministerial meeting of countries affected by the outbreak of the disease that has reached many Asian countries and led to the culling of millions of chicken.

Tap Here to Add The Daily Star As A Trusted Source

Six people have died in Vietnam and two in Thailand after contacting infected chickens. Ministers concerned from Cambodia, China, Laos, Malaysia, Vietnam and Hong Kong will participate while Japan, the US, South Korea and Taiwan will send senior officials.