Health & Environment

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 have fallen by 12,000 over the past three years. Across the border in Laos, officials are tracking a similar pattern among young people, though on a smaller scale. Thirteen of Thailand’s 77 provinces now record more...

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

Laos has ordered the immediate suspension of the import and sale of Squishy toys...

Laos Eyes State Fuel Stations as Future EV Charging Hubs

Laos is exploring plans to turn state-owned fuel stations into electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging...

Lao Government Suspends Mining Company Over River Pollution in Vang Vieng

The Lao government has ordered Daochalearn Mineral Processing Sole Co., Ltd. to immediately suspend...

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...

Thai Actor Honored with Labor Medal for Contributions to Khammouane Healthcare

On 10 December, Thai actor and singer Phakin “Tono” Khamwilaisak received the First-Class Labor Medal from Khammouane Governor Vanxay Phongsavanh, honoring his contributions to...

Lao, Korean Red Cross Unite to Boost Blood Supplies in Laos

The Lao Red Cross (LRC) in Vientiane has formalized its partnership with the Korean Red Cross Blood Services (KRCBS) to strengthen blood service operations...

New Partnership with China, UNICEF Aims to Boost Child Health, Protection in Laos

On 4 December, China, Laos, and UNICEF launched a USD 1.5 million partnership aimed at tackling severe acute malnutrition, improving child health, and expanding...

Lao Front for National Development, UNICEF Join Forces to Drive Nationwide HPV Vaccination Campaign

The Lao Front for National Development (LFND) and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) hosted a national media briefing in Bolikhamxay province on 3 December,...

Laos to Enforce Graphic Health Warnings on Cigarette Packs

Laos is set to implement redesigned cigarette packs featuring large graphic health warnings to reduce smoking rates and deter tobacco use, becoming the third...

Laos to Decentralize Medicine Procurement to Provinces Starting in 2025

A shortage of medicine in Laos' state hospitals has forced patients to buy medications from outside sources. This issue was raised during the 8th...