Representatives from ASEAN member states are convening in Laos, the ASEAN Chair for 2024, to discuss intensified national disease prevention, preparedness, detection, and response measures.

The 18th ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting on Health Development (SOMHD) is being held in Vientiane from July 1 to 5, addressing crucial health issues among ASEAN countries, ASEAN Plus Three, and ASEAN-China, according to the Lao Ministry of Health.

ASEAN's rapid growth poses challenges to health systems, including overpopulation, pollution, and environmental health problems. Poverty remains a significant determinant of health status, especially for marginalized groups in remote areas.

Officials agreed to hold an ASEAN Health Ministers' conference to establish policies and strategies for effectively responding to health developments and scenarios. They also emphasized the importance of international cooperation.