Health

Trendy ‘Squishy’ Toys Suspended in Laos Over Chemical Safety Concerns

Laos has ordered the immediate suspension of the import and sale of Squishy toys nationwide after authorities warned that some may contain hazardous chemicals that pose health risks, particularly to children. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce issued the order on 28 July, instructing provincial industry and commerce departments across...

Former MRC Chief Anoulak Kittikhoun Named First Lao Head of Mekong Institute

Former Mekong River Commission (MRC) Chief Executive Officer Anoulak Kittikhoun has been appointed Executive...

Laos Turns to Public-Private Partnership to Tighten Product Quality Controls

Laos has launched a new state-backed company to inspect and certify the quality of...

Laos Suspends Vientiane Private Hospital Suspected of Organ Trafficking

The Ministry of Health announced the immediate closure of BLL Hospital after a Taiwanese...

Laos Must Spend More on Healthcare as Costs Rise, World Bank Says

Healthcare in Laos is under growing financial pressure, and the country can no longer...

Climate Crisis in Laos: Heatwaves Threaten Agriculture and Public Health

Despite enduring one of the coldest winters in years, Laos continues to grapple with the lasting effects of the past years of severe heatwaves. Unresolved...

Ministry Warns of Norovirus and HMPV, Urges Caution in Vientiane Capital

The Lao Ministry of Health warned residents of Vientiane Capital of a series of respiratory diseases that normally come along with the cold season,...

Ministry of Health pilots text message vaccine reminders for childhood immunizations

On 30 January, the Ministry of Health celebrated the start of a 12-month pilot that will see text message (SMS) reminders sent to parents...

Heroes in Pink: Celebrating the Legacy, Future of Midwifery in Laos

Dubbed the “heroes in pink," Souksavanh Paserthsak has witnessed first-hand how midwives have evolved to save lives and support rights in Laos. As deputy director...

Laos Launches New Initiative to Preserve, Enhance Traditional Medicine Production

On 20 January, the Institute of Medicine and Traditional Medicine under the Ministry of Health signed a new agreement with the Chanthabouly District Young...

Laos Faces Severe Blood Shortage as Only Five Provinces Meet Donation Targets

Laos has long been grappling with a blood donation shortage. In 2024, several provincial branches of the Lao Red Cross failed to meet their...