Health & Environment

Nam Song Turns Muddy in Vang Vieng Without Rain

The Nam Song River in Vang Vieng District turned muddy on 15 October, raising concerns among residents who noticed the unusual change despite no reported rainfall. The river is normally clear, and the absence of rain has left residents questioning what caused the discoloration. However, the cause has not been...

Health Ministry Finds More Than 180 Illegal Beauty Centers, Orders Nationwide Re-Inspection

The Lao Ministry of Health has ordered a nationwide re-inspection of private medical and...

The Photographer Who Speaks for Laos’ Forests

In the forests of Laos, observation comes before words for Souksamlan “Toun” Laladeth. That idea...

Slope Collapse Hits Workers’ Camp at Pak Beng Hydropower Project in Northern Laos, No Casualties Reported

A section of hillside collapsed beneath a workers’ residential camp at the Pak Beng...

Nam Theun 2 Fund Approves LAK 343 Million for Forest Restoration in Khammouane

The Nam Theun 2 Development Fund approved more than LAK 343 million (USD 15,300)...

Laos Steps Up Fight Against Wildlife Trafficking Amid Rising Demand

Authorities in Laos continue to intensify efforts against wildlife poaching and trafficking, with recent operations leading to the arrest of a suspect in Khammouane...

Farmers, Workers, Business Professionals See Highest HIV Infection Rates in Laos

The Lao Ministry of Health reported 1,896 new HIV cases identified between January and November 2024.  On 29 November, ahead of World AIDS Day, Deputy...

Covid-Like Virus Rises in China, Experts Say Not to Worry

In December 2024, China saw a rise in respiratory infections, particularly among children under 14, due to human metapneumovirus (HMPV), according to CBS News....

Khammouane Authorities Temporarily Suspend Mining Operations After Land Collapses

The Ministry of Energy and Mines has suspended operations at a mining site in Khammounae province after two land collapses raised safety and environmental...

Laos Reports Over 20,000 Dengue Fever Cases in 2024

Dengue fever continues to challenge public health in Laos, with over 20,000 cases reported in 2024, leading to 11 fatalities. While the number of...

Vientiane’s New Bus Project: A Step Forward or a Traffic Gamble?

Additional reporting by Kheuakham Chanlivong In Laos, daily commutes are largely dominated by private vehicles, with public buses playing only a minor role in Vientiane...