Health

African Swine Fever Disrupts Pork Supplies, Beef Prices Rise in Vientiane

The pork shortage is putting pressure on Vientiane’s meat markets as African swine fever (ASF) spreads across Laos and authorities restrict the movement of pigs and pork. State media have confirmed outbreaks in two districts and three villages in Vientiane Capital, including Sangthong district, where 115 pigs died across two...

Laos Steps Up Crackdown on Beauty Clinics, Orders Dr. Nith to Halt Procedures

The Ministry of Health has ordered Dr. Nith Beauty Center, a local beauty clinic...

Laos Bans Unregistered Cosmetics Resembling Popular Brands

The Food and Drug Department (FDD) has banned the import, sale, distribution, advertising, and...

Laos Gives Unlicensed Beauty Clinics Until November to Obtain Permits Amid Weak Oversight Concerns

The Ministry of Health has ordered unlicensed medical and beauty facilities across Laos to...

Thailand’s HIV Cases Pass 550,000, Laos Reports Rising Infections Among Young People

Thailand has recorded 557,993 cumulative HIV cases, health authorities say, even as new infections...

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...

New Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Vientiane 40 Percent Complete

Construction of a new treatment and rehabilitation centre for individuals with addiction to illegal substances in Phonhong district, Vientiane province, is now 40 percent...